From my experience working in various corporate environments, one consistent reality I’ve noticed is that management often makes promotion decisions well in advance. Sometimes, these decisions are made almost a year before they’re announced. This means the traditional approach of waiting to show your value right before a review may not be effective. I’ve seen managers reserve promotion spots for individuals they’ve already identified as high performers or fitting the company’s future needs. This upfront planning can feel frustrating if you’re unaware of it because your efforts closer to the evaluation period might not be enough to influence the decision. To better position yourself, try to build strong relationships with your people manager and other key stakeholders early on. Consistently communicate your achievements and aspirations, and seek feedback regularly rather than waiting for annual reviews. Understanding the internal timelines and criteria your company uses for promotions can also give you an edge. Ultimately, transparency is limited, but being proactive and strategic in showcasing your value increases your chances of being on that 'promotion radar' well before the formal decisions are made.