The Peter principle : why things always go wrong

This is now a standard part of managerial thinking and there is no escape from promotion, whether in the City, government, the Civil Service, academia, the media.

Wherever hierarchies exist leads only to failure and an eventual shunting into corporate oblivion. This satirical classic explains why the human race is lost in a pit of economic, administrative and academic inefficiency.

Most of us, whether the work experience placement or the Oxbridge fast-track career prospect, are doomed to ultimately end what seemed to be a glittering, dynamic career in humiliating mediocrity (obviously anyone reading this, and my boss, are exempt).

However, a deviously cunning strategy (requiring both diligence and a talent for lies) can avert the unwanted promotion and preserve your dignity. Laurence J. Peter spent most of his working life teaching in universities where he made a lifelong study of teacher incompetence.

Raymond Hull is a playwright and poet, whose articles have appeared in 'Esquire' and 'Punch' among others.