You didn't get that promotion, so now what?

Times may be tough, but you've been holding up the IT shop and you expected to get a promotion. Suddenly, the bombshell hits: "We've decided to go in a different direction," your boss tells you.

This could be happening in any sector of the workforce, but it's happening in yours, according to a new Business Week article. So how do you react and just what do you do to handle this big disappointment?

First, remember you are lucky to have a job even if you were looking for a better one. Then, go into overdrive. Figure out what you want to do and how to get there. Did you really want that promotion? Did you have the skills for it? And how can you continue to make yourself invaluable at what you do?

Sit down with your bosses to identify where you can improve so you will be the best candidate the next time around. Continue building your skills and work on new ways to advance. Figure out what you really want to do and how to get there. Maybe the job wasn't right for you. Maybe IT isn't or maybe you need to be in a different IT sector.

For more on your strategy for a promotion:
- check out this Business Week article

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