In this episode of Lunch with Leaders, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adaeze-iloeje-udeogalanya">Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠</a> leadership strategist and founder of African Women in STEM, dismantles the myth that hard work alone leads to promotions.She reveals the hidden mechanisms behind career advancement—why timing, personal branding, visibility, and strategic relationships matter more than annual performance reviews.Packed with real career stories, actionable advice, and a free Leadership Edge diagnostic tool, this episode is a must-listen for women in STEM and anyone aiming to break through to leadership. Who is This For?This episode is for ambitious professionals—especially women in STEM—who want to understand how career advancement and promotions really happen within organizations.Adaeze speaks directly to those seeking to move from mid-career to leadership roles, who may feel “stuck” or believe hard work alone should guarantee recognition and advancement.If you want to build strategic influence, visibility, and a powerful personal brand at work, this is for you. FAQsQ: Is hard work enough to get promoted? A: No. According to Adaeze, while hard work is foundational, promotions often depend on visibility, relationships, and personal branding—most decisions happen informally, before formal reviews.Q: When are promotion and raise decisions really made? A: Decisions are made long before official performance reviews, often during budget planning or in informal conversations months (or years) in advance.Q: What’s the PIE Formula? A: PIE stands for Performance (10%), Influence, and Exposure (90%). The biggest career results come from building influence and exposure, not just doing great work.Q: How can I assess my own leadership visibility and influence? A: Take the free Leadership Edge diagnostic tool at <a href="https://authorityshiftassessment.netlify.app">link.africanwomeninstem.com/leadership</a>. Key Moments & TimestampsIntro & Purpose00:00:00: Adaeze introduces the show and reflects on her own journey The Performance Review Trap00:02:13: Realization that promotions are not based on annual performance reviews Timing of Promotion Decisions00:04:51: Explains how budget season impacts promotion/raise outcomes The Myth of Meritocracy00:08:01: Challenging the idea that working hard equates to advancement How Advancement Really Works00:11:16: The real promotion decisions happen informally, long before jobs are posted Invisible Conversations & Informal Power00:12:57: Promotion is decided in side conversations, not official meetings The Role of Personal Brand & Relationships00:17:26: Why trust and relationships, not just performance, get you shortlisted PIE Formula & Actionable Strategy

From Invisible to Indispensable: Mastering Organizational Power in Your Career - 066

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