It’s a question that echoes through quiet car rides home, late-night reflections, and conversations with close friends:

“Why was I not promoted?”

If you’ve ever found yourself asking this, you’re not alone. The final Season 2 episode of Leadership Unlocked dives deep into the reality behind missed promotions and what leaders are truly looking for.

Have You Made Your Intentions Clear?

You may assume your performance speaks for itself. But here’s the catch: if you’re not clearly communicating your desire to grow, your leaders may have no idea you’re even interested. Simply stating your aspiration openly and confidently can shift the entire conversation.

Promotion doesn’t just happen to people. It happens with people who make their goals known.

Ask yourself: Have I told my leader that I want to step up? Have I shared what I want to do next?

Are You Speaking Up or Holding Back?

There’s often a misalignment between what team members think leaders want and what leaders are actually looking for. Many of us hold back in meetings, thinking we’re being respectful, not wanting to “rock the boat.” But from the leader’s seat, that can read as disengaged or unsure.

Leaders want thinkers, contributors – people who respectfully challenge the status quo and bring forward fresh perspectives.

You don’t have to speak up in every meeting, but when something valuable crosses your mind, consider it your cue. That voice in your head saying “should I say something?” – that’s your moment.

Curiosity and Ownership Go Hand-in-Hand

Being promoted isn’t just about offering ideas. It’s about owning them, taking initiative and demonstrating follow-through. Leaders value team members who not only think critically but are willing to roll up their sleeves and help turn good thinking into great outcomes.

One way to stand out? Bring insights up the chain in a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent way. You’re in a unique position to notice patterns, challenges, and opportunities that leaders higher up and not as involved in the day-to-day might not see. And when you link those insights to the bigger picture? That’s strategic thinking in action.

Consistency Over Intensity

Leaders often look for team members who show consistency over time. Small wins, steady results, quiet confidence, calm under pressure, humility in success. These traits build trust and reliability, and that’s gold when leaders are deciding who to promote.

Be Present

You don’t need to be loud to be impactful. Some of the most memorable contributions come from those who listen deeply, reflect thoughtfully, and offer sharp insights at the right time. Presence is power. It says, “I care, I’m here, and I’m invested.”

There is great value in being deeply engaged and summarising the heart of a conversation with clarity.

What Can You Do Next?

Whether you’re actively going for a promotion or simply wondering what the path looks like, here are a few simple steps to take:

• Reflect on your intent. Do you want to grow? Then say so
• Start noticing the moments when you hold back—and practise speaking up
• Find a mentor or coach who can support your development
• Ask for feedback and be open to what comes your way
• And if you’re a leader—initiate these conversations. Create the space. Your team will thank you

The gap between where you are and where you want to be is often smaller than it feels. It starts with clarity, courage, and a willingness to show up a little differently.

So next time you hear that internal whisper, “Why was I not promoted?” – tune in. That voice isn’t doubt – it’s desire. And it’s pointing you towards your next powerful step.