What do you do if you want to showcase your readiness for a promotion by taking on more responsibilities?

Initiative on small projects leads to confidence and trust for larger ones. If you're ready for a promotion (and you have a supportive boss)- this should be an easy conversation to have. Prior to that conversation, I'd recommend doing your due diligence on what's needed (whether it's certifications and trainings ) as well as a written list of what you've accomplished, excel at and bring to the table already.

Consider setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to guide your efforts towards readiness for promotion. Break down the skills and experiences required for the desired role into actionable steps, such as attending relevant training sessions or shadowing current project managers. Regularly review and adjust your goals as you progress, ensuring that you stay on track towards your promotion objectives.

Don't underestimate the value of informal opportunities to showcase your readiness for promotion. Offer to mentor new hires or interns, participate in cross-functional teams, or lead departmental initiatives. These experiences not only demonstrate your leadership potential but also highlight your ability to collaborate across different departments and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

You can't showcase anything if no one knows to join the audience. A key step in the pursuit of career advancement within an organisation is to make your intentions known to relevant parties. Communicating your intentions also safeguards against misinterpretations of actions, such as seeking out additional responsibilities. Lateral drift is a very real possibility, and once established as a fixture within an organisation with additional responsibilities and dependencies, it becomes significantly harder to justify the cost of investing in your advancement. In short, maintain transparency and candour when and wherever possible, especially RE your career ambitions.

When discussing your career aspirations with your manager, be prepared to provide concrete examples of how you've already taken on additional responsibilities and succeeded. Share specific achievements or projects where you've demonstrated leadership, problem-solving skills, or initiative. This evidence-based approach reinforces your readiness for a promotion and helps your manager understand why you're a valuable asset to the team.

Consider pursuing professional certifications or attending industry conferences to deepen your expertise and credibility in the translation field. Look for opportunities to cross-train in related areas such as localization, content management, or language technology, which can complement your translation skills and make you a more versatile candidate for promotion. Don't forget to leverage online resources, such as webinars or podcasts, to stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the industry.

Networking isn't just about making connections; it's about nurturing relationships and offering support to others in your professional community. Be proactive in reaching out to colleagues and industry peers, whether it's to share insights, collaborate on projects, or offer assistance. Building a reputation as a helpful and reliable resource can increase your visibility and credibility within the translation industry, ultimately enhancing your prospects for promotion.