Any worker who considers themselves a good employee (good at their job, report to work on time, and even take on more responsibility),would wish to be pushed up the hierarchical levels within the company. It usually happens that way, but not all the time. Promotion at work requires effort and the ability to stand out as an employee that befits that form of recognition. Adapting some new habits can come in handy as a way of positioning yourself for that upgrade. Be a team player. According to Sky Dennis, a human resource expert, managers are looking for team players to elevate them to bigger positions. Team players collaborate with their group members and hence have the ability to achieve goals in the workplace, yet have strong communication, active listening, and problem-solving skills which are necessary for any job position. He also stresses that team players don’t only focus on their position but go an extra mile to volunteer and make sure that the company is moving on smoothly. “Employees that are ready for a promotion have to keep learning and gaining more skills. For instance, you can find a career coach or mentor to help you work on the skills you need. You can also keep asking for advice from people who are more experienced in your career and continue pursuing more courses to boost your skills and stay up-to-date,” Dennis states. He notes that you can approach your manager in case you hear of any promotion and inform him of your career goals, that way, you can fill him in on your future plans and let him decide if you’re fit for the job or not. Dennis also believes that the beauty about speaking out is that you let the other party know of your views, plans and express what is on your mind. For him, many people lose out on opportunities for fear of speaking up yet it’s not easy to think for someone. He also points out that regardless of how long it takes, it’s important to keep doing your work with excellence all the time. It may not pay off right away, but it does eventually. Employees who want a promotion should position themselves as great leaders, the manager says. Leaders set goals, prioritise them, and take responsibility for accomplishing them. They also set boundaries between their personal and professional lives and mostly focus on developing others. They further take genuine interest in the company, encourage creativity and innovation, and make informed decisions. Anita Uwase, a financial expert and business manager says that it is imperative to make yourself seen, for example, dress professionally and decently to impress your employer and your co-workers because appearance matters a lot. Take part in opportunities where you can display your ideas and knowledge, this can even be in meetings. Your work may go unnoticed if you never put yourself in a visible position regardless of how hardworking you are, she says. You can ask your employer on what he or she thinks about your performance and don’t hesitate to seek advice on how to scoop the promotion. Uwase also notes to learn from people that have been promoted in the company; their skills and the way they work. Last but not least, be a problem-solver rather than a problem-creator and maintain a positive attitude about work.
