The Single Habit That Accelerates Promotions at PwC

Dolen, who has navigated the firm’s promotion cycles for over two decades, argues that technical output alone is rarely the deciding factor. Instead, he values employees who consistently show up when problems arise, whether that means jumping on a late-night flight or promptly answering high-priority messages. However, he draws a sharp line between being dependable and being perpetually online. Constant availability can signal inefficiency, particularly as AI tools continue to streamline routine tasks.

Career coach Kyle Elliott reinforces this perspective, noting that top performers often stall because they mistakenly assume their results will speak for themselves. Managers overseeing large teams lack visibility into every individual accomplishment, making it essential for workers to frame their contributions around measurable business impact. Beyond visibility, Elliott points out that promotions are typically awarded for demonstrating the skills of the next level before the title is officially granted. Building a network of internal advocates and proving readiness for future responsibilities remains the most effective strategy for those looking to climb the corporate ladder.