How to Write a Rebuttal Letter to Your Employer for Being Passed Over for a Promotion

A rebuttal letter should be well-written and never antagonistic.

Career advancement brings recognition, power and, in many cases, more money, which can lead to financial security. Being passed up for a promotion after working diligently for an employer can be a frustrating experience. A well-written rebuttal letter can make all the difference in being reconsidered for a promotion or coasting along in your current position.

Instructions

Contact The Right Person

1. Address your letter to the person who makes the decisions about promotions.

2. State your current position and how long you've held that role.

3. Mention your desire to advance professionally at the company.

Sell Yourself

1. Outline your interest in the job position you are seeking.

2. Write down your transferable job skills that would serve well in the new role.

3. List any awards or recognitions you've received.

Address The Problem

1. State that you were passed over for a promotion to the new role.

2. Write the date and time that you were informed of being passed over.

3. Dispute any reasoning you may have been given for being passed over for the promotion. Rely on satisfactory past performance evaluations if necessary.

Ask For Reconsideration.

1. State your goals for the department or the company.

2. Detail how you will contribute to reaching those goals in a new role.

3. Ask your employer to reconsider his decision regarding your promotion.

4. Inquire about other open job positions that are comparable to the role that you are seeking.

Tips & Warnings

• Remain professional. Do not express angry or antagonistic emotions in your letter.

References

• "The Big Book of How To Say It"; Rosalie Maggio, et al; 2001