Promoting Professionalism (cont.)
Be certain that they are not hearing this blueprint for the first time when promotions are being considered. Nobody likes surprises, especially when they want to be considered for a higher position.
Give specifics in this promotion blueprint. No one appreciates wishy-washy or beat-around-the bush conversations. This does not mean you have a license to be cruel or harsh. Do keep personalities out of the conversation. And don't make future promises except as they relate to the employee's current performance.
A passed-over employee can feel better if you take the time to explain not only what they need to do in the future, but also if you quickly give them some new and more challenging assignments. You can also help them feel good about themselves by sending them to a seminar for more personal and professional development. This shows that although they didn't get the job, you do care about their continued development for the next opportunity.
One final note. There are times when a passed-over employee cannot be satisfied, because either they can't accept additional waiting or you have told them their present rate of progress or their abilities will probably preclude them from advancing.
Be prepared for some turnover. It's better to be honest with them and lose them than to have them hang around getting frustrated because of empty promises and incomplete assessments of their futures. If a promotion can't be offered in good conscience, and even the future doesn't seem progressive for them, it may be best for that employee to make a career change.
Your honesty at this point may be the greatest gift you can give!