If the Answer Is No

Hearing "not yet" stings, but how you handle it shapes your next move. First, ask for specific feedback: "What exactly do I need to demonstrate to be ready?" Vague answers like "more experience" are useless — push for concrete behaviors.

Second, ask for a timeline: "If I address these areas, when is the next realistic window?" A manager who can give you neither specifics nor a timeline is telling you something about your future there.

Third, send a follow-up email. "Thanks for the candid talk. To confirm, I should focus on X and Y, and we will revisit in Q3." This builds accountability on both sides and keeps the goalposts from shifting.