You know you’re ready for more.

But your company still sees you as the intern.

Or the “nice guy.”

Or the person who “does great work… but isn’t quite ready.”

Sound familiar?

In this episode of The 5% Club Podcast, I’m telling you the story of Monica—a brilliant, experienced global product manager who got passed up for a promotion by someone external… even after her boss said she was ready.

Why?

Because they still saw her as the intern.

What happened next? A $90,000 raise. And a whole new level of respect.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why your company might never see you as more than “the intern”
• The real reason you’re not getting promoted
• What to do when comfort is costing you growth
• The 3 things all change requires (based on the Human Action Model)
• A journaling prompt that can shift everything this week

🎧 Listen Now

👉 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts

💡 Key Insights & Takeaways

1. Being good at your job isn’t enough.

If you “grew up” in your company, people may still see you as who you were, not who you are. Monica had global responsibilities, ran a product line, and was ready—but they brought in someone else. Why? Because they couldn’t see her differently. It happens all the time.

2. Sometimes, you have to leave to level up.

Monica left and landed her dream role—with a $90K bump in pay. She’s now seen as the expert, being invited into high-level conversations, and already being considered for a promotion. Want more proof that change is possible? You’ll hear it in her story.

3. You don’t always have to leave. But you do need a strategy.

You might be able to stay and totally change your experience. I’ve helped clients do just that. You need the skillset, the mindset, and a strategic plan to shift how you’re seen and how you operate—before you make the leap.

🛠 Your Next Steps

✔ Listen to the full episode: Spotify | Apple
✔ Want help applying this? Book a free consult: Booking Link
✔ Download my free ‘9 Things You Can Stop Doing Right Now’ guide: Download Here

If you’re ready to stop being overlooked and start being seen as the confident, respected executive you are…

Join the 5% Club waitlist at shaylaking.com.

Let’s evolve together.

Your Coach, cheerleader, and accountability partner,

Career & Life Coach for Executives

Join Shayla’s Waitlist!