Free template for engineering managers
Build the written case that shows you're already operating at the next level, and know what to say if the answer is "not yet." From a former Director of Engineering at DigitalOcean.
You'll also get my occasional emails on leadership for women in tech. Unsubscribe anytime.
If you only remember one thing
Turn your work into a clear, evidence-backed case that your manager can forward to the people deciding.
A dedicated section for the work nobody asked you to do. It's your strongest proof that you're ready.
Two ways to make the ask: a title when the role exists, or the scope you'll lead when it doesn't.
What to say in the conversation, and the exact questions to ask if the answer isn't yes.
When I was promoted to Director, it wasn't because of the list of everything I did as a manager. It was because of something I did that wasn't my job.
I noticed architects from different groups weren't aligned, so I created an architecture working group and led those discussions. Nobody asked me to. In my promotion case, I listed that initiative and the impact it created: partnerships between teams, and architects who finally knew and trusted each other.
Later, on the other side of the table, the cases that convinced me showed concrete proof of impact beyond the daily role. The ones that made me groan said "I've been doing this role for X years." This template is built around that difference.
Limor Bergman Gross, PCC. Executive and leadership coach for women in tech, and host of the From a Woman to a Leader podcast.
What is a promotion justification document?
A short written case for why you're ready for the next level. A strong one shows the impact you're already making beyond your role, the scope you've grown into, how your work supports company goals, and a clear ask.
How do I write a promotion justification?
Start with a clear ask, then lead with initiatives you took beyond your role and the impact they created. Add your biggest results with numbers, connect your work to where the business is going, include what others say about you, and keep it short enough to forward.
What should a promotion justification include?
The title or scope you're asking for, initiatives beyond your role, how your responsibilities have grown, measurable accomplishments, alignment with company goals, feedback from people you work with, and what you'd drive at the next level.
How do I justify a promotion to my manager?
Show proof that you're already operating at the next level, not how long you've been in the role. Send your written case before your 1:1, open with the ask, and ask: "What would need to be true for you to say yes?"
What if there's no open role to be promoted into?
Ask for the scope instead of the title. Propose a specific initiative you'll lead, and agree with your manager on what it would take to reach the next level and by when. Impact is what opens up roles.
What should I do if my manager says I'm not ready yet?
Don't settle for "not ready" without specifics. Ask what exactly is missing, what someone at the next level would be doing that you aren't yet, and agree on two or three things you'll show by a set date, with regular check-ins.
Who created the template?
Limor Bergman Gross, PCC, an executive and leadership coach for women in tech and former Director of Engineering at DigitalOcean with 20+ years in tech. She hosts the From a Woman to a Leader podcast.
That's exactly what I help engineering managers with: turning strong work into a clear, confident case for the next level. Book a free promotion strategy call.
Book a free promotion strategy call