To think most promotions are rewards for politics, not competence?

[BluntTealLion]

The best workers don’t always get ahead - the best politicians do. AIBU to think most promotions are really about playing the game, not doing the job?

It's who you know and whether your face fits. Mediocrity v meritocracy.

Yes. Effort, attitude and competence are not taken into account

Of course. At the end of the day, they promote people they feel they can personally work with. If you're a genius but with 0% people skill there is no way they want to spend time with you in meetings, at business conferences, at the airport, etc.