Progress will definitely be faster since you upgraded the room. However, at the higher levels (especially level 7) it takes a really long time to progress. Each round of "working on career" adds only a small amount to the bar. You should see SOME movement though. Make sure you hear the sound of coins jingling and get the message that your little person has earned some money. If that is happening, then I feel certain they are progressing, it's just slow at higher levels. If not, they may be wandering off before actually finishing the cycle. Be sure to praise them for working (not more than twice in a row) and allow for breaks from work as well (so as not to tire them out.)