[deadwing0]

I understand your point completely. I just wonder how much negativity bias plays a part here. Do we remember these instances of employees being overlooked for promotion more so because they produce strong negative feelings? I'm sure there is some truth to what you say, as I've seen it too.

I imagine there is also some (likely several) cognitive phenomenon happening in the meeting where these employees are considered for a raise. If my boss were to ask me my opinion in front of everyone whether we should promote someone or not, as a middle manager I may be expected to have an opinion, even if it's helpful or not. I also may be tempted to share that one bad memory of that person (negativity bias could be at play here, as well) so that I appear to be insightful and observant.

It sure is exhausting trying to figure out humans, but endlessly interesting. It's just hard when I'm only an "armchair-everything" and lack the data and/or knowledge to figure us out.