By: Dr. Stephanie Diana Eubank
In the business world, top performers are often seen as the backbone of organizational success. They consistently exceed expectations, drive innovation, and serve as role models for their peers. Yet, paradoxically, many of these high achievers find themselves overlooked when it comes to promotions. This blog post explores why stellar performance reviews don’t always translate into career advancement, and what top performers can do to navigate this challenge.
What Is a Top Performer?
A top performer in business is an individual who consistently delivers exceptional results, demonstrates initiative, and often goes above and beyond their job responsibilities. They are reliable, innovative, and frequently take on leadership roles informally. Despite their contributions, they may not be promoted due to organizational dynamics and cost considerations.
What Is Quiet Quitting?
Quiet quitting refers to the practice of employees doing only what is required in their job descriptions, without taking on extra responsibilities or going beyond expectations. It is often a response to burnout, lack of recognition, or feeling undervalued. For top performers, quiet quitting can be a strategic way to recalibrate their efforts and reassess their career trajectory.
Why Top Performers Aren’t Promoted
According to Wells (2025), promoting top performers can be a costly mistake for organizations. When high-performing individual contributors are promoted into management roles without proper training, team performance can decline. This phenomenon is known as the Peter Principle, where individuals are promoted to their level of incompetence. Additionally, replacing a top performer often requires hiring multiple people to cover their workload, making it financially burdensome for companies (Wells, 2025).
Derler et al. (2024) highlight that top performers are more likely to resign when they see new hires receiving higher pay, underscoring the importance of equitable compensation and recognition. Gotian (2024) emphasizes that neglecting high performers can lead to disengagement and attrition, as these individuals require support and growth opportunities just as much as others.
Strategies for Top Performers
Here are several strategies top performers can consider to address promotion stagnation:
- 1. Communicate Career Goals: Proactively discuss your aspirations with leadership and seek feedback.
- 2. Seek Lateral Moves: Explore opportunities to expand your skill set through lateral transitions.
- 3. Build a Personal Brand: Showcase your achievements and thought leadership internally and externally.
- 4. Find a Sponsor: Identify mentors or sponsors who can advocate for your advancement.
- 5. Quiet Quit Strategically: Reassess your workload and focus on core responsibilities to avoid burnout.
- 6. Pursue External Opportunities: If growth is not possible internally, consider roles at other organizations.
- 7. Invest in Development: Continue learning and acquiring new skills to stay competitive.
Conclusion
Being a top performer is a valuable asset, but it doesn’t guarantee promotion. Understanding the organizational dynamics and taking proactive steps can help high achievers navigate their careers more effectively. Whether through strategic quiet quitting or seeking new opportunities, top performers must advocate for their growth and ensure their contributions are recognized.
References
Derler, A., Bamberger, P., Winlaw, M., & Chow, C. (2024, March 5). When new hires get paid more, top performers resign first. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2024/03/when-new-hires-get-paid-more-top-performers-resign-first
Gotian, R. (2024, October 8). Stop ignoring your high performers. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2024/10/stop-ignoring-your-high-performers
Wells, R. (2025, September 21). Promoting your top performer is your biggest mistake. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/rachelwells/2025/09/21/promoting-your-top-performer-is-your-biggest-mistake-heres-why/
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