How to be more ‘promotable’ in 2019

Why do you feel that you deserve to be promoted?  There willcome a time in your career, when you feel that you have earned it, you’ll have to make a strong case for that promotion. Here’s how.

1.    Know your why: A promotion might seem like the next logical career step, but don’t go asking for it blindly. Take the time to know what you want from it and why. Don’t ask for one just for the sake of it.  What is the motivation behind it? Is it a better title? A pay hike?  Are you looking for more responsibilities? Do you want to manage a team? Ask yourself how these will satisfy your desires. Next, examine the position. You need to have the time to carry out all the responsibilities that it comes with. Are you ready to work late nights if required? If needed, are you ready to work weekends? Do you have the additional skills required to fulfill your tasks?  After looking into these, and if they are in line with your motivations for asking for the promotion, then go ahead.

2.    Your current job should be flawless: If you can’t excel at your current job, what makes you think that you will shine in the new position? Do not neglect parts of your current job. You may come off as sloppy. Furthermore, don’t do things on autopilot as your boss might think that you don’t care about your work. Surpass your boss’s expectations in your current position. This will prove that you are ready for the promotion.

3.    Go the extra mile: This is a tactic that will get you noticed – in the right way. Without being prompted, take on more responsibilities, put in the extra hours and anticipate the needs that a project requires. Without stepping on others’ toes, you could take on some of the responsibilities that come with the promotion before you get the job. When your next performance review rolls around, or when you are granted the meeting to make your case for the promotion, to impress your boss, present the solid list of tasks you’ve been handling.

4.    Be a mentor: If you are in a position to mentor the junior staff in your organisation, grab the opportunity. This shows your ability to go the extra mile – and you are six times more likely to be promoted than someone who isn’t a mentor.

5.    A little self-promotion never hurt anyone: He might not necessarily know how great you are, therefore, don’t shy away from reminding your boss of your accomplishments. Don’t be in a hurry, as making yourself promotable takes time. Be strategic in how you go about it. Be diligent and stay committed. A little self-awareness will take you far; don’t just rely on self-evaluation. Ask a trusted colleague for feedback.

6.    Act as if you already have the promotion: Just as you should dress for the job you want, also act as if you have the job you’re going for, not the one you have. Acquire the skills you’ll need to succeed in the promotion. Apply critical thinking in your work and demonstrate creative problem solving.

7.    Ask for the job: It would be a shame to apply all of this and not get the promotion because you didn’t let your intentions known. Make your boss aware. And, even if you’ve done your own research to help you secure the position, ask him what you’ll require to get the job.  If you don’t get it the first time around, don’t despair – at least you have identified yourself as a candidate for the position. Continue working for it. And, as I’ve said before, it takes time, thus be diligent.

After looking at what you need to get promoted, here are a few things that might be a hindrance.