I have read 4 books on career advancement (I also reviewed them) and this one provides the best practical and streetsmart insights into the dynamics of corporate promotions.
Promotion usually happens to people with the following characteristics:
1)You must be available. If you are tied up in an important project and pulling you out will jeopardize that project, then you might be bypassed for a promotion. It is important to have a replacement for your skills since promoting a person who have a ready replacement is less risky. In other words, minimize all risks associated with promoting you , such as the cost and risk of replacing your current position, your bad relationships with key organizational people, and personal (alcoholism, lack of self control etc.) problems.
2)You must show (sell) you can do the job at the next level. Do not assume you are have shown the capacity for the next level by being competent at your current position. Learn to talk, to dress, and to possess the skillset (knowledge) required for the next level.
3)Anticipate organizational needs and changes. Do not merely be a passive player amongst the corporate changes. Anticipate organizational needs, develop a knowledge base to provide for the need, and sell yourslf as the answer to the anticipated organizational problems to the influencial senior managers.
3)Develope a network of good relationships. Do not be a jerk. In the modern workplace, it is better to be loved than feared since the knowledge workers have more leverage than ever. Talented people do not need to accept your fear tactics. It is important you are perceived as someone who is good to have a beer with.
4)Be a constant learner. This is even more critical in the knowledge based economy. Success comes to those who learn critical skills, especially in anticipation of future trends.
Overall, I have found the book provides excellent street sage advice. This one is definitely worth its price and a read.