Henry Ford
‘Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.’
Promotions are earned because you have demonstrated that you are able to perform at the next level and not JUST because it’s your turn.
Find out seven steps to power your way to that promotion:
1. Know where you’re going.
If you want promotion you need a clear goal of where you want to be promoted to – in some companies you could be promoted to a job where you are doing the same work for more money.
Here I am talking about a promotion into a higher position with new responsibilities, therefore you need to set out a targeted plan in getting there.
2. Research the new position.
When you have targeted the job you are looking to do, the next stage is to understand what the role involves, the skill sets you already own which are suitable for the role and which skills you need to develop.
3. Create a development plan.
If you have a supportive manager, their agreement and support of your objectives is invaluable. Develop a plan based on step 2 and allow them to review it.
More often than not your line manager will have an outside perspective of your skills and make suggestions on the areas of improvement. You will then be able to go forward with your plan in greater detail.
Before you go to your boss make sure that you have thought through your actions, your reasoning behind your objectives and why your skills are suitable for the job.
4. Be proactive and develop opportunities.
Make sure your superior knows that you are available and interested in any promotions that come up. If the opportunity presents itself, demonstrate that you can take on more responsibilities by volunteering to fill in or share the workload for a person in your targeted position. This will help you to learn new skills and show your line management your potential.
5. Don’t drop the ball with your current position.
Remember you still have a job that is important to your company, taking on new duties and not performing in your day to day job does not help your position.
Be aware that without performing in a way that meets or exceeds expectations, you should not expect to gain a promotion for your work. That means that you may need to put in some additional hours to prove your worth.
6. Review your plan with feedback
A plan is only of value if you measure your development against your goals. Review this along with line management feedback to see how you are progressing.
Your performance review should show that you have mastered the work that you are currently responsible for and that you are ready to take on more responsibility.If you are not moving forward look for what is blocking your development and how can you overcome this.
7. Allow your plan to develop
Life rarely stands still, sometimes you will need to change your plan when circumstances change. Your boss may leave or the company may go through restructuring. If you are aware of this when you start, it will be easier to make the necessary adjustment.
Keep your eye on the goal and when the business changes, look at that event as an opportunity. Every change gives you a chance to solve problems and let management know just how indispensable you are.
If there is one message I would want to leave you with it’s this:
Ultimately the path to success is in your hands! GOOD LUCK!
Thanks Margaret for the great tips!
Thanks a lot for your advices 🙂
You’re very welcome Hanan!