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Everyone wants to get paid what they’re worth and be recognised for their work. You’re told that if you perform well, stay loyal, and deliver results, the promotion or pay rise will follow.

But in reality… it often doesn’t.

In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we unpack why career progression isn’t just about performance. From workplace politics and perception to confidence and timing, this conversation looks at what actually drives promotions and salary increases, and why so many capable people get overlooked.

If you’ve ever felt like asking for a pay rise turns you into someone holding a begging bowl, you’re not alone. And more importantly, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Joining me are:
🔹 Ella Sherman – Host, Ella Podcasts
🔹 Dr Jonathan Marshall – Clinical Psychologist and former professor
🔹 Chris J Reed – LinkedIn expert and personal branding specialist
🔹 Aya Alimkulova – HR & Beyond podcast host and regional sales expert

Together, we bring honest perspectives, practical strategies, and a few uncomfortable truths into a conversation about how careers really work behind the scenes.

Together, we discuss:
• whether promotions are really about performance, or perception and politics
• why some average performers move up faster than high performers
• how visibility and personal branding impact your career progression
• how to ask for a pay rise without damaging your internal reputation
• why documenting your achievements throughout the year matters more than you think
• how to clearly communicate your value in a way that gets recognised
• when negotiating aggressively works and when it can backfire
• why having another offer can completely change the conversation
• what really happens with counteroffers and why they’re not always a win
• the reality of “quiet quitting” and how it affects your long-term career

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hard work alone does not guarantee career progression
• Promotions are influenced by visibility, perception, and internal politics
• If you don’t ask, you are unlikely to get a pay rise
• Confidence in negotiation comes from preparation and evidence
• You need to actively communicate your value, not assume it’s seen
• Counteroffers and aggressive negotiation can have hidden consequences
• Long-term career growth requires strategy, not just effort

Your company will always optimise for its own interests. The question is, are you doing the same for yours?

If you’ve ever felt stuck, undervalued, or unsure how to move forward in your career, this episode will give you a more realistic lens, and practical ways to approach your next conversation.

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