The Peter Principle: “In time, every post tends to be occupied by an employee who is incompetent to carry out its duties.” Laurence J. Peter’s theory postulates that most competent people are promoted until they reach a position that is above their skill level, at which point they cease to grow.
Studies show that promotions are still largely a reward for past performance rather than future potential, so in many cases, the principle still holds after 50 years.
Which should prompt us to ask the question…
What about me? Why was I promoted?
What have I done to be an exception to the principle?
Look around you for any managers who have avoided the Peter Principle trap. Hopefully, you can find some 🙂
What did they do?
Ask them!
My best wishes, Paul
