Introduction: What You’ll Learn
Hearing that you didn’t get a promotion can be tough. This simulation guides you through how to handle your disappointment, get useful feedback, and plan your next steps to move forward in your career.
You’ll practice:
- Managing emotions and staying professional
- Asking for and understanding specific feedback
- Creating a development plan with clear, actionable goals
- Building resilience and keeping your motivation up
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Receiving the News
(You’ve just found out that you didn’t get the promotion you applied for. Take a moment to process.)
You: (Internal Monologue:) "I really thought I had a good chance at this promotion. I’ve put in a lot of effort and time into my projects. It’s disappointing to hear I wasn’t chosen."
Action: Take a moment to feel your emotions. Use a few deep breaths to calm down and think clearly. When you’re ready, plan how to ask for more details.
Scene 2: Seeking Feedback
You: "Hi [Manager’s Name], I’d like to talk about the recent promotion decision. I’m eager to know how I can improve and keep growing in my role. Could we set up a time to chat?"
(Your manager agrees, and you meet to discuss.)
Manager: "We value your contributions. This decision was difficult, but there are areas where you could develop further. Specifically, we’d like to see more leadership in cross-functional projects."
You: "I appreciate the feedback. Could you explain more about what effective leadership in these projects looks like?"
Manager: "Certainly, it involves not just coordinating tasks but also inspiring the team and aligning stakeholders towards common goals."
Scene 3: Reflecting and Planning
You: (Internal Monologue:) "I need to focus on developing my leadership skills. I’ll start by finding chances to lead projects and getting a mentor."
Action: Write down specific goals and steps. For example:
- Goal: Lead a cross-functional team project within the next quarter.
- Action: Volunteer for upcoming projects and express interest in leading efforts.
- Action: Arrange a mentor session with a senior leader experienced in cross-functional leadership.
Scene 4: Building Resilience
You: (Internal Monologue:) "This is a setback, but I won’t let it stop me. I’ll use this as a learning experience to get better and stronger."
Action: Reach out to your support network. Share your plan and ask for encouragement and advice from peers, mentors, or friends.
You: "Hey [Colleague/Friend], I didn’t get the promotion, but I’ve got some useful feedback to work on. I’d love your advice on developing leadership skills."
(Your colleague provides support and shares their experiences.)
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1: Your manager provides vague feedback.
- Best Response: “Thanks for the feedback. Could you give specific examples of where I can improve?”
Challenge 2: You feel demotivated and unsure about your career path.
- Best Response: “I’ll take time to think about my career goals and align them with actionable steps.”
Challenge 3: A colleague asks about the promotion decision.
- Best Response: “I didn’t get it this time, but I received helpful feedback and have a plan to improve.”
Optional Curveball Mode
Add one of these scenarios during practice:
- You hear the news during a busy workweek.
- Your manager’s feedback seems inconsistent with previous reviews.
- A peer who received the promotion offers unsolicited advice.
Practice handling each scenario with resilience and positivity.
Reflection Checklist
Emotional Management
- Did I take time to process my feelings constructively?
- Did I keep professionalism when discussing the decision?
Feedback and Planning
- Did I ask for detailed feedback?
- Did I create a clear, actionable development plan?
Resilience and Growth
- Did I maintain a positive outlook?
- Did I connect with my support network for encouragement?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reacting emotionally in the moment
- Avoiding feedback discussions
- Setting vague or unrealistic goals
- Isolating yourself from your support network