Psychology at Work | Career Success, Leadership, Communication Skills 75. Caught in Promotion Purgatory? 4 Signs You're Being Strung Along & What NOT to Do When You’re Stuck
Nov 25, 2025
Ever feel stuck in promotion limbo? Discover the signs that indicate you might be in promotion purgatory, from vague feedback to a lack of visibility. Learn why communication skills are more vital than working harder and how proving yourself can backfire. Melody highlights the importance of showing you're ready for the next level while avoiding common pitfalls, like bombarding leaders with data. Plus, find out when leaving is a valid option, but only after addressing communication gaps!
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What Promotion Purgatory Really Is
- Promotion purgatory is a liminal place where you're constantly promised advancement but it never materializes.
- Melody Wilding shows this often hides a communication gap, not just bad luck.
Vague Feedback Means Missing Recipe
- Vague feedback like "executive presence" signals senior leaders know the outcome but can't articulate the steps.
- They often can't deconstruct intuitive executive behavior into teachable actions.
External Excuses Often Hide Low Urgency
- Being told "it's not about you, it's the business" sometimes masks that you haven't created urgency.
- Organizations will find budget when a role clearly solves a pain that keeps leaders up at night.
