For many attorneys, earning a promotion is the ultimate validation of hard work, late nights, and dedication. But what happens when that recognition doesn’t come—despite clear progress and commitment? Being passed over for promotion can feel like a career crossroads, leaving you to decide: should you stay the course, or seek greener pastures elsewhere?
Your Situation at a Glance
- Denied promotion despite noticeable improvement and no glaring red flags.
- Financial disappointment, exacerbated by missed prestige opportunities.
- Ethical considerations, especially if your current firm provided support during a personal crisis.
- Competing offers, including a potential new position with a 30% salary bump and advancement prospects.
What the Advisor Recommends
- The lack of promotion may stem from your personal emergency, rather than your performance. The firm may have opted not to promote for reasons unrelated to your competence.
- Stay and wait it out: If the emergency was interpreted as a legitimate cause and you expect the promotion to follow after demonstrating continued performance improvement, staying could still result in advancement later.
- Explore external options: A significant promotion and pay increase elsewhere may be a compelling reason to make a move.
- Reflect on tenure and loyalty: If you’ve developed long-standing relationships and received support during personal difficulties, these may warrant consideration when weighing your options.
Key Factors to Guide Your Decision
| Consideration | What to Ask Yourself |
|---|---|
| Reason for the denial | Was the decision based on your personal challenges—or something deeper? |
| Firm’s supportive dynamics | Will your current firm reward loyalty and performance in the near term? |
| Outside opportunities | Is the alternative offer genuinely better—both financially and professionally? |
| Long-term goals | Where will you have the best chance to grow and eventually make partner? |
Bottom Line
- If you believe the denial was situational and your current firm values your progress, staying could yield future promotion.
- If you sense underlying issues or misalignment, pursuing a clear-cut opportunity—with promotion and compensation—may be the more strategic move.
- Ultimately, deciding whether to stay or switch depends on your unique blend of loyalty, ambition, and values.
