POV: Ghost Promotions

We always hear about ghosting…
Girls & boys ghosting after that one date. 💔
Recruiters ghosting after that second interview. 💔

But have you heard of Ghost Promotions?

That’s when your boss says, “We have big plans for you! You are next in line, just wait a little longer.”

N!amah, that “a little longer” turns into two years and counting.
No promotion, no salary adjustment, no title change. Just more work and sweet, sweet promises.

Harapan palsu je ada.

So, how long do you wait before calling out the BS?

From my POV, 6-12 months is a reasonable window, if there’s clear communication, alignment, and visible progress.
Anything beyond 1 year with no updates, no clarity, and no timeline, is raising red. 🚩

And, what should you do NEXT?

Have a courageous conversation with your manager with direct questions like:
What’s the timeline for this promotion?”
“What milestones do I need to meet?”
“Can we put this in writing?”
Privately, politely.

Document your contributions and show how you’ve already been performing at the next level.

Meanwhile, you also need to set a personal deadline. Decide how long you’re willing to wait and plan your Plan B accordingly.

Don’t confuse praise with progression. That is not a career plan.

If a company truly, truly values you, they won’t do you like that – leaving you in a limbo. And honestly, if they keep saying “next quarter” with no action, you know what… Bro! Maybe it’s time you do the ghosting!

Happy weekend everybody! Know your worth. Ask the right questions. Don’t wait forever.

xoxoxo, AuntyHR

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AuntyHRâ„¢

Also known as Professional Bimbo

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Ku Sim Ling, fondly known as AuntyHRâ„¢ on social media, is a seasoned HR expert with 20 years of experience in the workforce solutions industry. With half a million followers across LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, she's influencing the HR landscape from Malaysia.

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