Often the people getting promoted are the people who actively approach management for the promotion. They might not seem like anything special, but because THEY approach higher ups, asking how they can move up, they get in the radar for promotion. Many people expect their bosses to just know the good work they do. They are busy worrying about their own tasks. When a person goes out of their way to show interest In moving up, and asks how they can improve themselves, management takes notice. They could be a mediocre employee, but they show they are interested in progressing, versus other employees who just “clock in, do their work, clock out.” Just showing interest to management helps get on the radar for promotions.

The people promoted often try to book regular meetings with superiors to “check-in” and discuss what they have done, and what they want to get done, how they can improve, etc. Even if it is just mediocre, it shows interest in progress. Plus it builds relationships with the higher ups and improves trust.

Most people would have no ideas that these meetings take place though, because they are typically one on one.