How to Get Promoted

Written By Olympia Parra

Actionable Steps to Get Ahead

Are you doing everything right—working hard, delivering results—but still waiting for that big break? You’re not alone. Research shows that while Latinas are among the fastest-growing workforce segments in the U.S., we remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. Less than 5% of Fortune 500 executives are Latina, and part of the challenge is not just the glass ceiling—it’s the way we approach our careers.

It’s time to stop waiting and start strategizing. Here’s the formula to take control of your career:

1. Talk About Your Wins

Don’t assume people know how great you are—show them.
A 2021 study by McKinsey found that women, especially women of color, are less likely to self-promote compared to their male counterparts. That has to change.

Actionable Tip: Keep a “wins journal” to track your accomplishments. Use this during performance reviews or casual conversations with your manager to remind them of your impact. Example: “Last quarter, I increased team productivity by 15%, resulting in [specific results].”

2. Expand Your Network

Your network is your power.
Harvard Business Review data reveals that 70% of career advancements come from personal networks. Building relationships with decision-makers and allies can be the key to unlocking new opportunities.

Actionable Tip: Schedule regular coffee chats or virtual meet-ups with people in your organization. Use these conversations to learn about opportunities, share your goals, and build rapport. Don’t just connect upward—peer allies can also advocate for you when the time comes.

3. Ask for What You Want

Waiting in silence gets you nowhere.
A LinkedIn survey found that women are 26% less likely than men to ask for a promotion or raise. Why? Fear of rejection, feeling unready, or cultural values like humility. Let’s flip the script.

Actionable Tip: Schedule a dedicated meeting with your manager to discuss your career goals. Prepare by listing your accomplishments, aligning them with company priorities, and asking directly:

  • “What steps do I need to take to earn a promotion?”

  • “How can I take on more responsibility to prepare for [specific role]?”

The Big Picture

These steps might seem simple, but they’re the game-changers that Latina leaders use to rise to the top. Being vocal about your accomplishments, leveraging your network, and boldly communicating your ambitions can transform your career trajectory.

A trailblazer who mastered the art of promotions is our very own Marissa Solis, Senior Vice President, Global Brand and Consumer Market at NFL. She drops some serious wisdom about this topic here. 

Let’s rewrite the narrative together: Latinas CAN and WILL reach leadership roles in every industry.

Remember, you’re not just advocating for yourself—you’re paving the way for the next generation of Latinas to follow.

Un abrazo,
Claudia & Cynthia
Founders of A LA LATINA

P.S. We put together an easy to use worksheet that will guide you to your next promotion. You can download it here.

Olympia Parra