Legal Rights

• Most employers won't formally announce that someone will receive a promotion, then not give it to him. Doing so leaves the company open for a potential lawsuit. But if this has happened to you, and you've either been promised a better position verbally or in writing, you have legal rights if that promise is not fulfilled. You have the right to seek legal counsel and sue the company. Remember though, if the promise was made verbally, it will just be your word against your boss' and if the suit gets dropped, you risk eventually losing your job for causing the company undue expense and hassle.
  
  

Speak to HR

• When passed over for a promotion, you will likely feel a multitude of emotions, including disappointment, embarrassment, sadness and even anger. When this happens, you have the right to speak to a human resources worker at your company. Because the HR department is required to be neutral, you can vent your frustrations and explain your position. The HR rep will listen to your grievances and help you with coping techniques.
  
  

Right to Time Off

• Though there's likely no written rule in your employee handbook that says you can take time off after being passed over for a promotion, you have the right to take some days if they're approved by management. After missing a promotion, it may be natural for you to sulk, perform your job poorly and make those around you uncomfortable. Instead of doing harm to your career, take a few days away from the office to recharge and speak to people who can cheer you up.
  
  

Seek New Employment

• If you feel you cannot return to your job, perhaps because you'll now be working directly under someone who you feel should not hold the position, you always have the right to seek new employment. Remember to avoid "burning bridges" at work, though. If you want to find a new job, give the necessary amount of notice to your current employer, as you never know when you may want to return to that company.