The tasks I’m given at work are too basic. I feel like I’ll never get a promotion here because I don't get a chance to show what I’m capable of
Everything you do – no matter how basic – is an indication of your potential. You just have to find ways of showcasing it. The biggest mistake you can make in these circumstances is to put no thought or effort into tasks you consider beneath your capabilities. In a perfect world, managers would be sensitive to the fact that sloppy work is often the result of resentment caused by feeling misunderstood and under-used. Better still, they would immediately find you something more stimulating to do.
In reality, all they see is poor results. This makes them reluctant about trusting you with anything more demanding. Get noticed for adding value in your work by putting care into its presentation, or taking time to discuss ways of extending the scope of projects. Suggest ways of improving efficiency or making your outputs more useful. That way you stand more chance of your boss thinking: ‘she’s too good for this job’ rather than: ‘she thinks she’s too good…’
Don’t rely entirely on someone else to provide the stimulus and opportunities you need. Make things happen for yourself. Display a professional, enthusiastic approach to your work, show interest in a training event you’ve not been nominated for, making it clear you’re asking to go because that’s how you’d like your career to develop.
Think about requesting a mentor to guide your career development, or do something in your own time that will add to your credibility. Don’t waste energy on feeling resentful and misunderstood, turn people on to your abilities rather than turning them off with an aura of boredom and resentment.