Getting a promotion at work has many benefits. You (almost always) get a raise, you have more influence, and you can access new challenges. If you want to move up, you need to have a strategy. These three steps will help you get prepared for advancement and heighten the likelihood you will be promoted:

Build Your Leadership Capacity

Most promotions also involve supervising employees. You don’t want to step into that role unprepared. Engage yourself in a focused period of self-assessment. Learn about your natural strengths, work style, values, enjoyable skills, and communication tendencies. Armed with self-awareness you can leverage your strengths and avoid the worst of your weaknesses.

Build Your Internal Network

People hire and promote people they know and trust. This can seem unfair but it’s a simple fact of life. Whether you are an extrovert or introvert, you need to strategically build relationships and choose highly visible projects. Find mentors you trust and respect. Attend conferences or key meetings. Get certifications or training that set you apart, and have you seated next to influential people in your organization. All these activities help you build your internal network.

Embrace Your Expertise

Armed with self-knowledge and a strong network, it’s time to address your imposter syndrome. Do you question your abilities? Do you find it hard to call yourself an expert? Sadly, this is far too common. Make it your mission to develop deep, authentic confidence. Enroll in a public speaking course like Toastmasters. Step up to challenging work that pushes you and leverages your genus skills.

Be aware, that career advancement is not for everyone. Your new responsibilities can make you miserable. If you love hands-on work and don’t enjoy developing people, you might think twice before accepting a higher-level position.

But, if you are attracted to leadership, get prepared and enjoy the perks!

#leadership #careeradvancement #careersatisfaction