How to... Get ahead and secure that promotion
Planning how to approach a promotion is the most important step to achieving it. Standing out from your colleagues, proving your worth and thinking about the interview are the steps to success
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Earning a promotion is a complicated matter, with many points to consider — not least in the fast-moving world of recruitment. Given the current economic climate, securing that all important promotion this winter is going to be a tricky business. For many recruitment consultants, this is unchartered territory as they are accustomed to being in high demand.
However, even in these trying times, there is still progression opportunities for the right individuals. If people think carefully about their career they will be able to ensure that their working life is full of potential, stability and fulfilment.
Stand out from the crowd
You must demonstrate your dedication, which often means putting in the hours and going the extra mile when required. To stand out from your colleagues, show commitment and exceed expectations by taking on that additional project even if it means working late on the odd occasion. It will ensure you get a name for yourself as a dedicated team player.
It is also important, now more than ever, to prove how you can make a difference to your employer. Think about your team, the services you use and consider solutions for how the department could be streamlined or how overheads could be reduced. Become resourceful and budget-focused to show awareness of the economic difficulties that could be affecting your organisation. Talk to your line manager about ways you can help make a difference quickly and easily, as well as any longer-term plans.
Become an expert in your field and anticipate trends; share your knowledge with superiors and express ideas regarding upcoming trends. Keep company goals, priorities and strategies in mind at all times.
Plan the chat
You need to properly plan the conversation you will have with your boss. Imagine this conversation to be as formal as an interview and plan your answers accordingly. Anticipate questions such as: “Why isn’t your current role stretching you?” and “Why do you deserve this extra responsibility?” Write a list of bullet points to help you focus and have them in front of you in the meeting, that way you can refer to them if you need to and you won’t forget any key pertinent facts or figures.
It is also wise to practise with a friend or family member; get them to give you honest feedback. Ask them to challenge you. They need to be honest and pick at any holes in your argument — forewarned is forearmed. Keep an account of your achievements and talk through the most impressive examples of ways you have contributed to the company beyond the norm.
Change your thinking
Think like your line manager. This will help you understand what it is that motivates him or her, and then you can address these points. By aligning yourself and your role to the line manager’s objectives, you will be able to help him or her achieve these goals and in turn make their life easier. Consequently, you will become indispensable.
Don’t become complacent and think you know all there is to know about the company, your job or the next step up. There is no excuse for a lack of research when pitching for a more senior role. You work in the business but how often do you actually do what you preach to others? Consider the job description fully and study the required skills to ensure you can demonstrate how and why you fit the position.
If at first you don’t succeed — keep trying. Take on board any feedback given and ensure you accept it graciously. Make sure you understand exactly how to achieve that promotion and organise regular meetings with your boss to monitor progress.
TOP TIPS
- Put in the hard work
- Prove your worth
- Stay head of the game
- Plan the conversation
- If at first you don’t succeed, try again
