Ten steps to claiming a dream promotion

Have you been waiting quietly for someone to acknowledge your contributions? 

-                      The late nights you’ve put in. 

-                      The occasional weekends you’ve been having. 

-                      The mega-sale you made last month.  Well, stop waiting.  Let me show you how to take charge of your career, and get that promotion!

1.                   Generate a list of your achievements over the last year and emphasize those of which you are especially proud (e.g. that mega-sale—one of the company’s biggest).

 

2.                   Generate a list of your intrinsic worth—the ones you feel are especially helpful to the team (e.g. your team spirit).

3.                   Have a clear idea about where you want to go.  What position?  What additional responsibilities you want to take on?  What salary you’ll command?

4.                   Learn as much as you can about the expectations of this role and the requirements for the position (e.g. education, experience, responsibilities)

5.                   Align your testimonials with the requirements for the position you seek—prepare a case for yourself.

6.                   If your credentials are a clear match, go for it!  If not, learn more from your boss and/or HR about what you might need to meet the requirements in the near future.

7.                   When you are ready, send a meeting request to your boss to discuss your role, and follow-up until the date has been set.

8.                   Be an accomplished professional—wear appropriate business dress.  How do those who currently occupy the position you seek, dress?  Emulate them as best you can, of course within the range of your personal style.

9.                   When you meet with your boss, present your case confidently, speak clearly and help him/her make the same connections you’ve already made.

10.               Should your boss not agree the time is right, be sure to inquire about specific skills, knowledge, and performance you can demonstrate in the coming months to ensure your growth.  Specify a timeframe in which you intend to obtain them, and agree to revisit this discussion once that period expires.

 Most employees do not make and present a case for themselves due to fear or beliefs, sometimes the culture of the organizations. Make sure you do it right, and time it well.

“Be courageous.  It’s one of the only places left uncrowded”
—Anita Roddick

www.thegrowthevangelist.com