So you've been at your job for five years, and you're great at what you do. You know how to do the work of your superiors and are often called upon to help. You get a raise every now and then, but what you really want is a promotion. Why is it not being offered to you?
Often, you need to seek it out for yourself. You need to demonstrate that you are qualified and present your case to your boss. If you are eager to move up in your career, here are some excellent guidelines to achieving a promotion.
1. Start with the right attitude. Don't view your job as just a "job." Think of it as a "position." Your frame of mind should be, "A position can lead to a higher position."
2. Do more than what is expected of you. Go above and beyond your regular duties and responsibilities. Doing more will increase your visibility within the company and will enable you to encounter more challenges. Get involved and show extra initiative. (Don't forget to implement effective work habits such as planning your day. When you are organized, you can accomplish more.)
3. Continuously expand your knowledge. Keep abreast of the topics and issues in your industry, whether through self-study or night classes. Often companies are willing to pay all or a great portion of the costs for classes -- take advantage of it! If your company won't provide funding and your personal budget is an issue, visit the local library or do some research on the Internet. There are numerous courses, books, tapes, conferences and seminars that are free or very inexpensive! Ultimately, stay on top of new trends.
4. Define your goals and set out to accomplish them. Do you know the specific position to which you would like to be promoted? What does it take to be considered for it? You might be able to discuss training opportunities with your human resource department. If you can determine in advance what outcome you want, taking the necessary steps to achieve that outcome will be easier.
5. Assess your accomplishments. What great things have happened at your company because of your efforts? Remember, these outcomes need to be specific and, whenever possible, measurable. An excellent strategy is to develop a personal career portfolio or "brag book." Neatly compile records of all work-related achievements, samples of exceptional work, letters of recognition, and other documents that demonstrate good job performance.
6. Remember to network. This cannot be emphasized enough. Others have a great amount of power in helping us move up the ladder. Increase your organizational awareness. Learn about all the departments and their goals and what they are doing to reach their goals. Act like you fit the part of the position you want -- dress, speak and act professionally.
7. Be proactive. Use the performance review process as a time to ask your boss about your future with the organization. Let your supervisor know that you are interested in progressing and learning more. Demonstrate your ability to handle additional responsibility.
With these thoughts in mind, good luck!
Lori White is a Professional Resume Writer for JobClincher.com and a former Employment Counselor for a non-profit agency.
