Carla Harris Promotion Currency Audit

Evaluate your hard evidence and key sponsors using the Carla Harris promotion currency audit framework to build a clear case for advancement.

5 time blocks, 40 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Performance Currency Inventory: 10 min
List delivered metrics, key projects, and measurable results
Diminishing Returns Assessment: 5 min
Identify tasks where extra effort no longer adds value
Sponsor and Ally Mapping: 10 min
Map decision makers who actively speak for your work
Currency Gap Calculation: 5 min
Compare output proof against your network of advocates
Sponsorship Action Plan: 10 min
Draft direct outreach to target sponsors and key allies

About this routine

Carla Harris, senior executive and author, developed a practical framework distinguishing performance currency from relationship currency. Performance currency comes from doing your job exceptionally well. It builds your initial reputation, produces measurable output, and establishes basic credibility across your team.

Relationship currency comes from the personal investments you make in people across an organization. Harris emphasizes that performance currency experiences diminishing returns over time. While high quality output gets you noticed early on, promotion decisions happen behind closed doors where you need active sponsors speaking on your behalf.

Running a Carla Harris promotion currency audit gives you an honest look at where your career equity stands. By evaluating both your tangible deliverables and your sponsor relationships, you can identify critical gaps and focus your energy on what drives advancement.

Why this routine works

Clarifies the difference between output effort and advancement capital
Identifies key decision makers who can sponsor your promotion
Prevents over-investing in tasks with diminishing career returns
Provides a structured agenda for career planning conversations

FAQ

What is performance currency versus relationship currency?

Performance currency is earned by delivering high quality work and hitting goals. Relationship currency is earned by building trust and rapport with key decision makers.

Why does Carla Harris say performance currency has diminishing returns?

Once you establish a reputation for high output, doing more of the same work rarely leads to promotion. Higher roles require trust, leadership potential, and vocal sponsors.

How long does this promotion audit take?

The audit takes exactly 40 minutes to complete across five focused blocks.

Sources

How to find the person who can help you get promoted, Carla Harris, TED Talk
Expect to Win: Proven Strategies for Success from a Wall Street Vet, Carla Harris