Have you ever seen someone handpicked for a promotion when it wasn't even posted? Did you wonder why it wasn't you?
I have to admit, I've done this myself. In looking to fill an upcoming manager position, I've looked at my team and asked myself who I thought would make the best manager, and offered them the job. Other times I've posted the position but reached out to certain individuals to suggest they apply. I went through the proper process (with a scorecard of course!) but they probably had a bit of an edge.
The hard truth is that leaders do this all the time.
So how can you ensure that you're the one they think of when a new leadership position is being created? Spoiler alert: it's not about favouritism and becoming BFFs with your manager. Heck, I've been friends with people and still hired or promoted others instead of them because I felt it was the right thing for the business.
So I'm going to let you in on a little secret: the key thing that sets these people apart is that they've created a perception that they are ready for the next step, both in their communication and their actions.
And you can do this too! In today's newsletter, I'm sharing 7 ways you can go above and beyond in your role and position yourself for that next promotion.
Let's dive in!
Exceed expectations
Step 1 is to ensure you're crushing it in your current role before focusing on that promotion. If you're not hitting targets and focusing all your energy on what's next, you'll create the perception that you aren't willing or able to focus on what matters most. Instead, deliver great results and then find ways to go above and beyond.
Express your ambition
Let your supervisor know that you’re interested in advancing your career within the company. Expressing your career goals and aspirations allows them to consider you for future opportunities.
Build strong relationships
Build great relationships with your colleagues, leaders, and those in other departments. Being well-connected within the organization can enhance your visibility and reputation. Remember that senior leaders talk to each other – make a great impression on a VP in another department, and they may end up supporting your promotion without you even knowing it.
Be reliable
Many people underestimate just how valuable it is to be seen as someone highly reliable. Build a reputation as someone who is dependable, meets deadlines, and consistently delivers quality work. Be the person everyone knows won't drop the ball and will drive results to completion. It will go a long way.
Develop and demonstrate leadership skills
For those of you who are not yet in leadership roles, take on leadership roles in projects or teams, even if informally. This demonstrates your ability to lead, motivate, and guide others and shows that you’re ready for a more senior position. You can also find opportunities to mentor others within your organization or team. When you're already showing up as a leader it's easy for your manager to see you in a leadership position.
Seek feedback… and act on it!
Regularly seek constructive feedback from your manager and reports, and use it to improve your performance. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow is key to career advancement. You're also sending the message to your colleagues that you respect their opinions and are willing to put their feedback into action.
Be a problem solver
This one is key! Take the initiative to identify challenges or inefficiencies in your department and the organization, and propose practical solutions. Maybe even volunteer to take the lead on implementing the solution. Being seen as someone who can address issues effectively adds a ton of value to your role and demonstrates that you're capable of identifying and solving problems. If you're looking to step into a more senior leadership position, demonstrating that you're able to see the big picture and identify company-wide issues will position you as a more strategic leader.
There you have it! 7 ways to go above and beyond… and hey, if you've been trying to get promoted for at least a year, check out my group program for managers and directors trying to get to that next level.
Until next time friends… ✌️💜
Katy
