Have you ever been promoted? If so, congratulations. If not, there might be something you can do about that.
Follow these simple workplace tips to help you gain a promotion and impress at work.
Go the extra mile
Giving up just five or 10 minutes at the start and end of your day will barely impact on your schedule, but will definitely be noticed by your superiors who may just be looking at who is deserving of promotion.
Create an action plan
The next step is to create an action plan. You should plan to close any gap that exits between what you can do and what you need to do. Again, it’s critical to involve your boss in this. Check with your boss that, if you complete the development plan, and achieve all the objectives on it, you’ll be supported as being ready for promotion when the day comes.
Good attitude
Attitude is everything. In today’s workplace, you not only have to possess a great attitude – but one that is attractive and likable. Remember, if people don’t like you – they will not trust you.
Be honest with yourself about your goals
Be honest with yourself and take the time to assess what you want out of your career.
Find a mentor
Mentor relationships can be formal or informal. Mentors are people with whom you can talk openly and honestly about work-related issues. A mentor should be more experienced than you, and good mentors can point out your blind spots, offer suggestions, applaud your successes, and guide your career.
Dress for success
You have to look the part to get the job. Always dressing professionally. Show your superiors that you can be counted on to look appropriate.
Be eager to learn
It’s in your best interest to take advantage of each presented opportunity that has the potential to make you better at what you do. Attending seminars and conferences, taking online classes, reading books, and shadowing superiors are all ways you can improve your professional abilities.
Be loyal to your company. Show you care about what happens to the business.
Take Notes
“We hate having to tell you things over and over. No boss should ever have to go over directions more than once. If you don’t understand the direction when it is being given, clarify right then and there and take good notes instead of depending on your memory.”
Be an observer
Pay attention to people who have been recently promoted or who work in the level above you. What skills, experiences and attitudes do they have?
Ask questions and make suggestions
The biggest asset to any company is someone who knows what they’re doing. Asking valuable questions and clarifying answers is the best way to become well-rounded in your line of work.
It’s not about the money
Have you thought seriously about why you want the promotion? What are your goals? Is it about a genuine desire to improve your professional life and to relish the challenge of a new role, or just because you want a better salary? If it’s the latter, then think again. You may not be able to cope with the new role if you are simply driven by the money.
Networking is key
Networking is a must do for any career. Often there will be more people involved in deciding whether to promote you than just your direct manager. Try to get experience working on projects that involve other leaders within the company.
