Sometimes our attitudes about ourselves say to others that we are "unpromotable" because we feel, inside, that we are "unpromotable".

I am not a psychologist and I do not know you so, please, forgive my impression if it is a false one. Your email leads me to believe that there could be a "self-esteem" issue here. You refer to yourself (through others' eyes) that you're "just a lousy worker".

I admit, though, that there is prejudice against people who remain "too long" in lower-level administration positions. Is it right? No. Can you change other people's perceptions? Not really.

To an earlier response to your email the issue of "grammar and spelling" was raised. I, too, noticed these errors. Is it something to be ashamed of? No. Can it be helped? Yes. Is it possible that it is holding you back if you are in a position of writing and submitting documents to your manager? Yes, it's absolutely true.

You, and, more specifically, your writings, represent your manager's department. He or she wants to offer a professional image to his or her co-workers, manager(s), and customers - internal and external. My point: writing skills, and other forms of communication are often very important factors in deciding who will receive promotions.

Many people, for many reasons, receive promotions they shouldn't receive. That shouldn't stop us from working on improving skills which may enhance our prospects the next time around.

Additionally, develop some realistic goals if you desire that promotion. Few (business and personal) goals receive enough of our attention to succeed if there's no plan outlining how we'll go about reaching them.

A book I recommend anyone and everyone who is frustrated with their job, their manager, or their company - "Knock 'em Dead" by Martin Yate.

It will help you to establish realistic goals by helping you determine - truly - what your goals are.