Career growth is extremely important to most employees. In fact, a recent study found that career progression is one of the most important factors to overall employee engagement. Employers are looking for a variety of traits when it comes to promotions. Here are a few things you can do to paint yourself in a positive light so you can land your next big deal:
Keep Learning
It’s extremely important to continually sharpen your skills and add to your toolbox. Earning an advanced degree or taking a few industry-specific courses is a great way to boost your portfolio and demonstrate your willingness to learn and take on new challenges. Many local universities, trade schools, and community centers will offer advanced degrees or leadership training initiatives. There are also many online master degree programs that will help you earn a degree at a fast pace and for a relatively low cost. These convenient and flexible options are a great way to show your commitment and earn a promotion.
Acknowledge Weaknesses
Everyone has a weakness when it comes to job performance. This doesn’t pose a problem if you can take ownership and make efforts to improve with each day. Accepting and acknowledging weaknesses demonstrates good leadership and allows you to move closer to your final goal. Employers look for employees who can accept responsibility, embrace change, and look for everyone opportunity to learn and grow.
Be a Team Player
Teamwork is the framework of every high functioning organization. The ability to play nicely with others, provide recognition, and rally a group are also critical to leadership development. Most organizations look for these skills when promoting from within. As an employee, you want to make sure you are offering recognition, volunteering to help when it comes to big projects, and demonstrating an attitude of positivism and shared values. Your efforts to help out in a time of need and your ability to lift others will be noticed and you’ll definitely be a contender when it comes time for a promotion.
Share Your Accomplishments
It may feel awkward at first, but it is important to share your accomplishments with your manager or executive leadership. Consider taking initiative and making a habit of writing down your quarterly accomplishments, statistics, and numbers. Try to review them each month with your supervisor so he or she can be aware of all your contributions. You should also keep track of any emails or notes you receive from customers, clients, or coworkers that express gratitude or complement your efforts. These can also be highlighted with your manager. While it may seem arrogant to flaunt your work, it could be the deciding factor when promotion day rolls around.
Select a Mentor
Mentorship is a great way to get your foot in the door and work the ladder. Mentors within and outside an organization may have the ear of the decision makers in your company. However, you’ll want to be selective when it comes to your mentor. You’ll want to choose someone who is successful and connected, but can also teach you and offer career progression advice. Of course, you don’t want to abuse the relationship. A mentor-protege relationship should be founded on trust and mutual respect. Show your mentor that you are serious about your career and interested in learning and growth.
These are just a few of the many ways you can work towards landing your next big career jump. Shooting for a promotion can be intimidating and time-consuming, but with the right strategy and level of commitment, you’ll be well on your way to making the big leap!
