How To Get Promoted At Work

Every company has a different process to promote employees. Some organizations post an open position and give everyone the same opportunity for consideration. Others tend to “hand pick” employees for promotion. Whichever process your organization follows, this will better prepare you to take the next step in your career.

Be Visible

Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, having a visible presence at work may help you get promoted.

For example, being active and engaged during meetings allows leadership to put a name to a face. Whenever possible, attend meetings in person rather than over the phone. The ability to interact with more of your co-workers provides you with the opportunity to stand out.

When you are in the position to interact with executives and leadership at your company, don’t shy away. Take advantage of the time to introduce yourself or strike up a conversation.

These opportunities may come up at social gatherings or large staff meetings. No matter how busy you are, take the time to make an appearance at events where leadership will be.

Don’t Pass The Blame

If (or when) something goes wrong, don’t make excuses or lay the blame at someone else’s feet. Taking responsibility for work or projects that have gone wrong is a trait many employers are looking for. When an error is made, it’s not about who is responsible, but about how it will be fixed.

Instead of being defensive about your work, be open to how you can correct what is wrong. Even more importantly, be open to discussing how the mistake will be avoided in the future.

An employee who is willing to learn from mistakes is a good trait when you’re being considered for a promotion.

Be Dependable

Being a dependable employee needs to be a top priority. Some of these traits include:

• Showing up on time
• Being where you say you’ll be
• Not calling out sick on a regular basis
• Getting your work done in a timely manner

These traits can go a long way to further your career.

Companies are willing to help grow the skills of a less experienced employees if they can prove they are worth the investment. If you are a source of frustration for your boss. You won’t be viewed as dependable. A promotion isn’t likely in your future.

Enhance Your Skills

Many companies have internal training opportunities that you can take advantage of. Be sure you have the right training for your current role. It’s also important to train for the job you want.

If the position you want requires a specific technical certificate, get the certification. This will help you become prepared for the job you want and, hopefully, impress leadership. Already having the skills and training needed for a promotion will give you an advantage.

Recommend Improvements

Processes and technology change all the time. For many of us, employee turnover also changes how work is assigned. It also changes who is responsible for certain tasks.

Review how the work is getting done to determine if there are workflow changes that should be made. When you notice possible improvements, bring those recommendations to management.

Being an employee who is invested in making their workplace better won’t go unnoticed for long. Leadership wants to see an employee who can bring new ideas and recommendations to the table.

If these ideas also improve workflow while reducing waste or cost, even better. When the opportunity presents itself to offer your new ideas, don’t hesitate. You are showing leadership that you are invested in not only your growth, but the growth of the company.

Take Charge

Showing management you can be a leader in your own right will help set you up for a future promotion. When there is a new project starting, let your manager know you are interested in leading the team. Taking on more responsibility will show initiative. It will tell your employer that you are ready for the next step.

If you are already working within a team without a designated leader, don’t hesitate to step up and make sure everything is going smoothly. Start meetings when necessary or reach out to other team members for updates. If there is no designated leader to start, you’ll likely be one in the end.

Be Your Own Advocate

No one knows what skills, abilities and interests you have more than you do. Be open about your desire for a promotion and advocate for yourself.

Your manager may pass you up for a promotion if he doesn’t realize you feel ready to take the next step. When the opportunity presents itself, put your hat in the ring.

Getting promoted isn’t an exact science. You need to have the skills and experience. You also need to show you are an engaged, dependable employee who has the right leadership qualities.

It may take time, but continuing to show your organization how invaluable you are will be a step in the right direction. the rewards will follow.