Career coach Reno Perry has highlighted nine common mistakes that even the most talented professionals make—habits that could quietly be holding them back from their next big promotion.
Based on years of experience guiding senior-level employees and leaders into high-paying, fulfilling roles, Perry explained that many high achievers fall into the same traps without realizing it.
Among the most damaging habits are:
- Trying to solve every problem instead of focusing on the right ones
- Confusing perfectionism with high standards
- Believing that hard work alone guarantees recognition
- Waiting endlessly for the “perfect” opportunity rather than acting on good ones
- Falling into the “we’re a family” myth at work and sacrificing self-growth
- Speaking up too often in meetings without being strategic
- Assuming loyalty will automatically be rewarded
- Avoiding relationship-building because it feels “political”
- Making themselves irreplaceable by not teaching others how to do their work
Perry emphasized that the solutions are often simple shifts in mindset and behavior. Professionals should, for instance, ask whether a task is truly their responsibility before saying yes, aim to deliver strong results at 90% rather than waiting for perfection, and share only one or two smart ideas per meeting to make a stronger impact.
He also advised focusing on big wins that matter most to the company, documenting processes so that others can step in, and protecting personal growth rather than relying on loyalty.
“Success isn’t about being perfect,” Perry noted. “It’s about knowing which habits help you and which hold you back. Your next promotion might be one small change away.”
About the Author
