My manager and I have worked together for many years. He considers me his best worker. But he does not recommend me for promotion. What could be the reason?

Answer: If you are your manager’s best employee, he cannot afford to lose you. There are three things you can do.

• Train someone to take your place. Do this at the same time you build your skill towards a higher position. This will make it easier for your manager to recommend you for promotion.

• Help your manager get promoted. If you are his best employee, chances are you will take his place when he is promoted. Rather than bitch against your manager, tell everyone you meet how good a manager he is. You don’t have to lie to do this. Just keep repeating the good part of him.

• Consider a lateral move. Find another manager who will take you into her department. This act will triple your promotability. One, if your former boss gets promoted. Two, if your new boss gets promoted. Three, because of the mere fact you have doubled your skill sets.

Ray Colorado
June 28, 2001