Summary of "A Harvard career coach’s “unspoken rules” for getting promoted | Gorick Ng for Big Think+"

Understanding the unspoken rules of career advancement

The video featuring Gorick Ng, a Harvard career coach and author, explores the “unspoken rules” that influence getting promoted in professional environments, especially for those from underrepresented or outsider backgrounds. Ng emphasizes that hard work alone is insufficient for career advancement; understanding and navigating hidden workplace expectations is crucial.

Main Points and Strategies

unspoken rules Defined: These are unwritten behaviors and expectations beyond the formal job description that high performers follow, often unconsciously, to get noticed and promoted.
Insiders vs. Outsiders: Insiders have access to informal mentorship and guidance about these unspoken rules, while outsiders must learn through trial and error, making career progression more challenging.
Visibility and Relationship Building: Success comes not just from completing tasks but from being seen, heard, and remembered by decision-makers through relationship-building and proactive engagement.
Identifying Hidden Opportunities: Look for chances to speak up, join meetings, build networks, and ask questions—these actions unlock career advancement opportunities.
Clarifying Task Expectations: To excel, employees should take ownership by asking four critical questions about every assignment:
1. Why is this task assigned? (Understanding the broader objective)
2. What is the expected deliverable? (Format and content specifics)
3. How should the task be completed? (Methodology or process expectations)
4. By when is it due? (Including unspoken internal deadlines)
Leveraging Outsider Strengths: Being an outsider brings unique perspectives and ideas that can fill organizational gaps and create value, transforming discomfort into a competitive advantage.

Summary

Gorick Ng’s insights reveal that career advancement depends on mastering the hidden dynamics of workplace culture. Recognizing and acting on unspoken rules—such as clarifying expectations, building visibility, and leveraging unique perspectives—can differentiate high performers and open doors to promotions and impactful roles.