sharing my own career trajectory. after graduation, i joined the private sector for around two years before entering public service. in my 4th year as a public employee now, with grading C, B, B+ and B+ for this year. am 32 this year, got an within-grade promotion last yr and across grade promotion this yr (now at MX11). currently also doing part time masters with sponsorship from my agency.

i think other than having good RO and CO who pushes for you, being open to new opportunities/work projects and offering to help in extra CCAs does help your bosses to fight for your promotion and better grading. i think public service also encourage career development, if possible can also look at the various scholarship or sponsorship available to upskill.