How Can I Keep A Positive Attitude At Work?

Welcome to the work world. I would ask the manager what I need to do to get promoted. You may find out something you were not aware of. Let the person know you thought you would get the current promotion. Ask why you did not get it, and ask if your showing the right stuff.

This situation happens over and over again in the workplace. If you can “buddy-up” to the boss, you stand the best chance of promotion. I told my kids if they wanted to get ahead in life they’d better learn the fine art of “butt-kissing”. I myself, never found it to be very palatable. You cannot control the situation but you can control your own behavior. Determine that you must continue to have self-respect and do the job that you are being paid to do. In this day of “lay-offs” consider yourself lucky to be able to maintain your position–others would trade places with you in a heartbeat. I know it sucks–but it’s a hard reality of the workplace. Do your best and forget about the other guy! Good luck!
C.B.

In my experience skills and aptitude have very little to do with achieving success in the workplace. Nonetheless it is absolutely infuriating to be passed over for someone less qualified then oneself -as if fairness had anthing to do with it. My advice is to pick up your briefcase and go work somewhere where you can get a little favouritism yourself.

You can ask your manager, in a calm, friendly tone, why you got passed for the promotion. Perhaps you do not know all the facts as to why they chose that person. If you find out exactly why you got passed up, it might make it easier on you and you can improve yourself so you will not get passed again.