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I didnt get a promotion in my previous jobs. How can I answer the question?

I didnt get a promotion in my previous jobs as I was an average performer. During the interview, the interviewer ask if I have ever been promoted? (given that I stayed in each of the organization for ~1-1.5 years only)

How could I answer this? (I just yes no I didn't get a promotion as time hasn't reached)

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Top answer
Pedro
Coach
edited on Oct 08, 2021
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

The answer should be something around the lines of: 

  • You gained increased responsibility levels during your tenure (give examples). 
  • You didn't stay long enough to turn it into an official change in rank/role description.

Since you stayed less than two years this is perfectly reasonable.

Deleted user
on Oct 08, 2021

Pedro is spot on & I agree with him.

In addition, when this question is asked there is no need to feel apologetic. If you are not on track for promotion that's okay. Nothing wrong with it. And if you perform really well in the interview process & show evidence of playing at the higher level, they will bring you in at that level.

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Ian
Coach
on Oct 08, 2021
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

I compeltely agree with Pedro.

You essentially want to imply/insinuate that you would have gotten a promotion or were due one, but left before there was an opportunity. Flag your increased responsibilities etc., but then just say you left as there were fascinating opportunities awaiting you that you could not refuse.

Now, note that you'll then have a new problem which is to assuage their fears that you're going to leave their firm quickly. You need to emphasize how you really think their firm is a great fit and you're excited to grow with them for many years.

Also, please stop leaving firms after just 1/1.5 years! If you keep doing this, you'll find it extremely difficult to get hired - it's a major red flag!

on Oct 10, 2021
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi!

Are 1-1.5 years enough to get promoted in your current company? If not, you shouldn't be worried about this question.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Anto

Agrim
Coach
on Oct 22, 2021
#1 Awarded Coach | BCG Dubai Project Leader | Master Casing in only 3 Hours | 10y in Consulting | Free Intro Call
  • Promotion is not something you were aiming for. Your priority was variety in experience. You wanted to ensure that you eventually settle down in a role that is best suited to you and hence you were trying different things at hand
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