Quarter 1: Get aligned on the bar
Ask your manager what "performing at the next level" looks like. Write it down. Most promotion gaps come from misalignment, not capability.
Quarter 2: Take on a stretch project
Volunteer for one project clearly above your scope. Document the scope, your role, and the outcome. This is your promotion artifact.
Quarter 3: Build visibility
Make your work visible to your manager's manager and 1–2 peer leaders. Slack updates, demo days, and skip-level 1:1s exist for this reason.
Quarter 4: Write the case yourself
Bring your manager a 1-page promotion document with scope, impact, and peer comparisons. Make their job easy.