There is a very ancient rule of thumb that states, people tend to get promoted to the level of their incompetence.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People are often promoted until they reach a position where they can no longer perform effectively.
- In plain terms
- Employees tend to rise to the point where they are no longer skilled enough for the job.
- What can you take from it?
- Promotions should match skills, not just past performance.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do organizations prevent skill mismatches?
- Should past success guarantee future roles?
Another view
Some people can adapt to new levels through learning and support.
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