We often think promotions are purely about performance—hitting targets, delivering great work, and proving you’re ready for the next step. But the reality? Plenty of high performers stay stuck, while others move up faster than expected.

The difference often comes down to visibility. Leaders can’t advocate for you if they don’t see your impact. Those who get promoted don’t just do great work—they make sure the right people know about it. They speak up in meetings, take on projects that matter to the business, and build relationships beyond their immediate team.

Hard work matters, but it’s not enough on its own. The people who grow the fastest are the ones who make their value impossible to ignore.