As the John Mellencamp song goes, “You’ve got to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.” That’s why it’s important to know what’s important to you when you are considering a promotion.
If your kids are young, you might not want a job that keeps you on the road 75 or 80% of the time. If your spouse has a good job and his or her prospects for advancement look good, you might not want to relocate.
On the other hand, if your career success goals involve climbing the ladder in your current company, you might want to consider a lateral move to demonstrate your commitment to your company and your willingness to broaden your base of experience. Make sure that you turn any unclear values you may have into easy-to-understand rules, so it's easier for you to react consistently, no matter whom or what you're dealing with.
Knowing what you value, want you want out your life and career, can really help you make the right decisions that will lead to the promotions you want and deserve.
