6 Tips to Push for that Job Promotion You Deserve
We humans are a greedy lot – never satisfied with what we have. Most of us have our hearts set on bigger goals and better things in life. But do we do enough to ensure that we have a good shot at achieving these things? Not really. We sit and we crib. And we’re really good at it.
Well, that just isn’t enough to get anywhere close to where you want to see yourself, at least as far as your professional life is concerned.
To finally own that dream house, to go on that exotic holiday you wanted to take with your wife, to get that promotion – you need to work for it. If you want a promotion, you’ll have to show you deserve it.
Here are six tips that can help you make your case for advancement in your career.
1. Know your goal
If you don’t know where exactly you’re headed, you’re bound to get lost. Are you gunning for a specific position? Just looking for a raise? Do you want to work in a different department? Become a project planner? Once you’ve defined the goal, you can concentrate on achieving it.
2. Talk to your boss
Do it regularly. It’s advisable to have a formal meeting where you explain your desire for a promotion to your boss. Ask what you can do to be considered for a higher position and whether there are other similar options available that you have not thought of. Once you’ve created this line of communication, keep it open. Keep your superior in the loop to ensure he/she is aware you’re doing all you can to get that promotion.
3. Develop your qualifications
Higher pay usually means more qualifications are needed. If the position you’ve got your eye on requires you to be a leader, take a management course. Higher education specific to your goal can make you a strong candidate for promotion. A short course from career training institutes like YTI.edu, which offer programs in every field from business to culinary arts, is an ideal option for those looking to give their career that extra edge. You could even consider an online program that lets you strike a good work-life-study balance. In order to make sure you’re ready for the extra responsibilities that come with a promotion:
- take external courses
- attend conferences and company events
- increase your network of contacts
- keep up to date with the developments in your field
4. Stay on the map
It’s been said before – it just isn’t enough to quietly do as you’re told. You need to overachieve. Be proactive. Don’t let co-workers or your boss forget that you are an asset to the business.
- Volunteer to be part of projects
- Plan office events/parties
- Speak up when you have an idea
- Offer to help out with tasks that aren’t assigned to you
5. No petty politics
Office gossip and trying to make co-workers look bad is no way to get a promotion. If you get a job using dirty tricks, your peers won’t make it easy on you. So in any situation or interaction at work, avoid being:
- Disrespectful
- Dishonest
- Slanderous
You definitely don’t need to bring others down in order to rise above them. Always keep in mind that diplomacy also plays a big part in politics.
6. Find a mentor
A mentor can be invaluable. If you can find a highly experienced member of the field you work in, befriend them. They can provide unbiased career advice and share their own experiences with you. You’ll learn more about the field and acquire strategies to achieve your career goals from someone who’s been there and done that.
If you really want a promotion, higher education, a can-do attitude, and good relationship with your peers and superiors is the way to go. Gently push for that promotion by following these six tips and you’ll definitely get it, because you’ll deserve it.
