Practical Career Advice You Can Count On
Getting promoted at work often hinges on more than just doing your job. Instead, promotions come when you show you are ready for the next step.
To help you take the next step up the ladder, here are ten practical habits you should make part of your career goals.
How To Get Promoted at Work: 10 Essential Ways To Go About Your Business
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1. Know Your Current Job And Perform It At A High Level
Mastering your current role is the first step toward a promotion.
When you excel at your job, you demonstrate reliability and competence. Thus, strive to meet or exceed your performance targets consistently. Doing so shows you’re capable and also prepares you for increased responsibilities.
2. Identify Problems And Solve Them
Being proactive about problems will set you apart.
First, look for issues or inefficiencies in your work environment. Second, suggest solutions and implement them.
Most importantly, problem-solving skills are often rewarded with advancement opportunities.
3. Understand Your Work Goals For The Next 6 Months And Achieve Them
Set clear, achievable goals aligned with your role and company’s objectives. Discuss these goals with your supervisor and track your progress.
Meet your targets to show that you’re focused and committed, which can strengthen your case for readiness to move up.
When goal setting, ensure your goals move you, your department, and your company forward in a big way.
I recommend these possible goals for work:
- Increase revenues
- Reduce or eliminate expenses
- Streamline a business process
- Improve upon a business KPI
- Lead a team or project
Dig Deeper – 10 Examples of Development Goals For Work
4. Develop The Skills Your Target Position Requires
Identify the skills needed for the role you’re aiming for and start developing them. Skills development may involve taking courses, seeking challenging projects, or learning from colleagues.
Gaining new skills demonstrates your commitment to advancing your career. The additional abilities will prepare you for a new role.
5. Have A Meeting With Your Boss To Express Your Desires
Communicate your career aspirations to your boss.
This meeting is your chance to express your interest in a promotion and discuss your career path. Be clear about your goals and ask for feedback on what you must do to achieve them.
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6. Understand And Deliver On The Requirements For Earning The Promotion
Each promotion has its own set of criteria. Make sure you understand these requirements and work towards fulfilling them.
This might include taking on additional responsibilities or demonstrating leadership in your current role.
To become a better leader, I recommend:
- Leading by example
- Improving your decision-making
- Delegating work effectively
- Fostering a collaborative environment
- Seeking feedback from team members
Related post – 10 Ways to Become a Better Leader
7. Improve Your Interpersonal Skills
Good teamwork and strong interpersonal skills are crucial for career growth.
Work on building positive relationships with colleagues and superiors. Being approachable and collaborative can significantly impact your chances for a promotion.
I recommend making these interpersonal skills development areas part of your professional growth plan:
- Active listening
- Public speaking
- Self-confidence
- Persuasiveness
- Conflict resolution
Must read – 60 Ways to Improve Your Interpersonal Skills
8. Network With The Right People
Building a network within your organization is a precious asset.
Networking helps you stay informed and visible, which can be beneficial when opportunities arise. Connect with individuals who influence decision-making or have insight into promotion opportunities.
9. Keep A Positive Attitude
Maintaining a positive attitude, even during challenging times, will make a big difference.
Positivity is a sign of resilience and dedication. Show that you can handle setbacks gracefully and remain committed to your work.
Read more – How To Develop a Positive Mindset.
10. If You Get Turned Down, Ask What You Need To Do To Improve
If you’re not promoted when you expect, seek constructive feedback.
Ask your boss what specific steps you can take to improve your chances in the future. This shows that you’re open to growth and willing to work on areas that need development.
How To Get Promoted At Work – Wrap-Up
Advancing in your career involves more than just fulfilling your job requirements. It’s about taking proactive steps to demonstrate your readiness for more responsibility.
When navigating the path to promotion, it’s important to view each step and each day as a chance to showcase your capabilities. Take initiative and seek feedback to show you’re invested in your growth and committed to improving.
Focus on what will make you, your department, the company, and your industry more successful. Doing so will significantly impact your career trajectory and set you apart from your peers.
Remember, career advancement is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, stay adaptable, and continue to refine your skills and work habits. By demonstrating your value and readiness for new challenges, you position yourself for success no matter what you choose to do.
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Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.