If you work for an employer, chances are you would love to earn a promotion this year. Promotions mean bigger pay, greater benefits, more respect and stature within the company, as well as a renewed sense of pride for being recognized for a job well done. In today’s economy and job market, promotions do not come easily, and it takes far more than just “showing up” to ascend the proverbial corporate ladder. For those that are wondering how to get promoted, here are 6 simple strategies:
1. Be a team player. The best way to make yourself look good is to make those around you look good as well. Be willing to help your colleagues on their projects, offer advice, and even pick up the slack for those less motivated than you. Be respectful of everyone; avoid office gossip and never speak ill of a coworker. Earn the reputation of someone others want to work with and who puts the team’s interests ahead of their own. Do this and your boss is sure to take notice.
2. Establish a relationship with your boss. No, this doesn’t mean brown nosing. However, it is important that your boss is aware of the work you are doing. Whether this is sending occasional e-mail updates on progress you have made, or scheduling periodic meetings to check in on performance, it’s critical that you stay on the boss’ radar. You can elicit feedback on your performance, and find out early if your efforts are valued or if you need to shift direction. This also allows your boss to understand your capabilities and performance, so that when new opportunities or projects arise he or she will be more likely to consider you for the task or job promotion.
3. Find a mentor. Is there someone in your field whom you admire? Someone who has the type of position you aspire to, is well respected among peers, and seems genuinely happy to do what they are doing? If so reach out to that person and ask if you can take them to lunch. Find out how they got to where they are today, what they think was most helpful in their professional success, and how they maintain a healthy work-life balance. This doesn’t need to be a formal relationship, and it doesn’t need to be just one person. Be a student of the successful to pick up tips on how you too can follow their path.
4. Study those who have been promoted. Within your current workplace, who are the people that are getting promoted? Do they possess a particular skill set, personality trait, or management style that seems to get noticed and rewarded? Through this study you may determine that the areas you are spending the most of your energy are areas that aren’t considered important when it comes time for promotion. If you can determine what is most valued within your company you can then focus more of your energy on that area, and get noticed the next time a job promotion becomes available.
5. Continue to learn new skills. No matter what your line of work, things are constantly changing and evolving. If you don’t continue to educate yourself you’ll eventually be left behind. This might mean anything from taking additional classes to volunteering to be involved in new initiatives within your company. Being adaptable and constantly willing to learn is a very attractive trait that will make you stand out to your employer.
6. Out-perform expectations. No one will be impressed with you if you merely accomplish what’s expected. In order to stand out, you must go above and beyond! Of course it won’t be easy, and it will take extra time and effort. However, if you really want to get noticed this year, this is the best way to elevate yourself above the crowd and get that promotion you’re hoping for.
Earning a promotion would be a great reward in 2014. I hope these 6 strategies on how to get promoted at work were helpful. Good luck and thanks for reading.
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Any opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author, and do not in any way represent the views or opinions of her employer or any other person or entity.
