Whether you’ve been in the same position for a while or you’re an intern hoping to make it to the full-time roster of employees, getting promoted can be one of the most exciting moments in your career. However, the promotion you’ve been waiting for isn’t going to drop out of the sky. You’ll need to work for it and, in most cases, ask for it. So how do you approach the situation?
Here are some tips…
Don’t get ahead of yourself
Wouldn’t it be great if we could all get promoted after our three-month probation? Yes. But the likelihood of that happening is low. You need to a) work in your position long enough to be considered and/or ask for a promotion, and b) have proven yourself in the role you’re currently in.
So, how do you know when it’s the right time? There are a few ways to tell:
- Is there a role available for a more senior position than the one you’re in that you are qualified for?
- Are you at a point in your role that you believe you can take on more responsibilities?
- Do you feel like you’re overperforming in your reviews with your boss and in your role as a whole?
Don’t be afraid to ask
So many people think that if they work their ass off to prove themselves, a promotion will fall into their lap. Sadly, this isn’t always the case. Yes, it’s possible that by working hard, you can be noticed and promoted. On the other hand, you can be overlooked. Most often, you need to tell your manager straight-up what you are looking for and why.
Prepare for this conversation. Asking for a promotion simply because you think you deserve it isn’t enough. If you’re seeking a new position or more responsibility, express to your boss why you feel you are ready for this next step. You can do this by having tangible examples of achievements and goals you’ve reached in your current position.
Nervous? Remember, the worst thing that could happen is they say no. However, most employers will respect your eagerness to develop professionally, and also your dedication to wanting to stick with the company.
They might say no
Let’s face it, just because you believe you deserve a promotion doesn’t mean your boss will think the same. However, that doesn’t mean you aren’t doing great work. It might be that other people are in line for that promotion ahead of you. It also might imply that you have a few things to work on first, which your boss should provide some insight on.
Even if there is a position available, as an internal candidate you have a competitive edge but you still might not get the job. Sometimes hiring managers search for a different set of skills or experience. Sometimes it really comes down to the hiring manager wanting a fresh set of eyes. Either way, if you are looking to move up and apply for new roles within the organization, act the same way you would if you were an external candidate. The position won’t be handed to you. You have to work for it.
What to work on
If you’re not at the point where you can ask for a promotion, you may want to consider some areas you can work on professionally to get noticed and improve your skill set, such as:
- Be a team player both on your own team and in the organization
- Ask for feedback from your manager(s)/colleagues and use it to improve
- Look for ways you can help your boss or ask how you can assist them
- Work to achieve your performance goals laid out by your manager. If they aren’t clear, then set these goals with them
- Be irreplaceable. What is it that makes you hard to replace? What are you bringing to the table?
- Take initiative to learn from your peers, boss and externally
- Document your success—don’t brush it under the rug. Your manager can accidentally overlook those wins when they have a million things on the go
- Show leadership potential by taking charge where appropriate
Getting promoted is an exciting point in your career, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Working hard and asking for it are critical components. If you’re not sure about the company you work for, read Let’s Talk Dream Company Culture.
What are your tips for getting a promotion? Share them with us!
