You have to kill your boss, or the senior technician to get a promotion. They have the job you want and are not leaving. They don’t want a promotion. They are fat and happy. They are like a big wad of hair and grease in the sink trap. They clog up the career track for everyone else. So, where is the Drano? How do you get them out of your way?
First be sure they are the biggest problem. It is embarrassing when you have complained for 5 years about your boss preventing you from getting a promotion, only to have him leave and a coworker is promoted in his place.
You need to have a list of standout accomplishments that prove you are perfect for the job you want. That way you can get the job in your current company OR the next one.
Become the obvious candidate. Ask your boss to help you get promoted. Also ask HR (Human Resources) and your boss’s boss. Find someone who will champion your cause and be your mentor. A mentor helps you prepare to advance and gives you visibility outside your team. Your mentor will help you to find high visibility assignments where you can prove your worth.
In a job journal write a weekly list of your accomplishments and projects. Use that list in your annual reviews. Also submit a weekly, monthly and quarterly list of accomplishments to your boss. Make sure he knows how much you contribute.
You can also look for a new job. If you have a list of undeniable accomplishments you will be a good hire for another company.
The same things that prepare you for a promotion in your company will make you a better job candidate.
Something to do today
Write down your career goals. It doesn’t matter if they change tomorrow. Know where you want to go today.