Doing great work is the foundation, but it is rarely enough on its own. Managers are busy, and the people who get promoted are usually the ones who make their impact visible and ask clearly.
Keep a wins document
Every Friday, spend five minutes writing down what you accomplished, problems you solved, and positive feedback you received. By review season you will have months of evidence instead of a fuzzy memory.
Understand the next level
Ask your manager what success looks like in the role above yours. Then start doing parts of that job now. Promotions often recognize work you are already doing.
Time the conversation
Bring it up a few months before the review cycle, not the week of. Budgets and decisions are often set early.
Make the ask
"I'd like to talk about my path to senior designer. Over the last year I've led three launches and mentored two new hires. What would you need to see from me to make that move in the next cycle?"
Turn your manager into your advocate by giving them the evidence they need to fight for you.
Follow up in writing
After the meeting, send a short recap of what you discussed and the agreed next steps. It creates a record and keeps the conversation moving.
Maya writes about career with a focus on practical, realistic advice you can use today.
