You’re in HR Operations and want to get promoted. What do you need to do first?

Understanding the requirements necessary for transitioning is crucial. Once identified, it's essential to build upon them. Embracing more risk by engaging in projects or tasks aligned with your primary goal can accelerate progress.

I would suggest that first understand the promotion requirements, and then assess your skills, competencies, and performance. If you need to improve in those areas, come up with a plan and begin attending needed trainings, obtaining certifications and if possible, take on additional responsibilities that will help you shine. Be sure to communicate your desire to advance and be prepared to prove you are ready for this next amazing step. Above all, don’t get discouraged.

Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment of your current skills, knowledge, and competencies relevant to HR Operations. Identify areas where you excel and areas that may require further development to qualify for a promotion. Seek feedback from mentors, supervisors, or colleagues to gain insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

HR has an exceptional view of the company's operations. First, use it to determine whether the opportunity for promotion even exists... and then utilize that strategic insight to identify opportunities for improving those operations and stand out. Prove your value, and you'll be on the right track to that promotion. Also, if you've been in that track for a while now, and you're not seeing the results that you want, comunication is the next step. Let it be known to your leader that you're looking to be promoted, and ask for feedback to know what skills you should develop in order to be ready for the new role.

Reflect on your competencies through a self-assessment and identify potential gaps. Fill in the gaps by learning the theoretical and practical knowledge, ideally accompanied by an experienced mentor from the desired field.

Love what you do, then you usually do it well - and that's usually seen. Educate yourself regularly, because the world of work, rights and digitalization are changing rapidly - go positive with the progress. Build a good network with positive, like-minded people from different backgrounds. Plan short term and long term goals for your own development and adjust if needed. Thinks can change, that happens.

The first step to moving up in HR Operations is to show that you can perform exceptionally well in your existing roles. Proactively seek opportunities to take on additional responsibilities or lead initiatives to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Invest in continual learning, remaining current with industry developments, and obtaining applicable credentials. Cultivate trusting relationships with coworkers and look for mentorship. Inform managers of your career objectives and indicate that you are interested in prospects for growth. Finally, bring new ideas to improve HR operations and demonstrate your readiness for a higher position.

Develop a strategic plan for your professional development aimed at acquiring the skills and experiences necessary for advancement in HR Operations. Identify specific goals and objectives related to your desired promotion, such as obtaining certifications, pursuing further education, or gaining experience in new areas of HR Operations. Create a timeline and action steps to achieve your development goals, and regularly review and adjust your plan as needed.

Connecting with peers who have the experience you want to gain/who are doing precisely the job you would like to performe is extremely rewarding. In particular, they will be able to share with you the reality on the ground. For example, they could advise you about the training and certifications that are of most interest, both in terms of content and value on the job market at that precise moment.

Expand your professional network within the HR community to enhance your visibility and opportunities for advancement. Attend industry events, conferences, and networking functions to connect with other HR professionals, thought leaders, and potential mentors. Engage in online networking through platforms like LinkedIn, participating in relevant groups and discussions to build relationships and stay connected with industry trends and opportunities.

Networking is not who has the most followers or leads. Networking is a super power when you're dealing with different people. This brings a change of perspective and innovation in yourself! Learn to actively listen and understand what the other person is saying. Ideally, you form your network with personalities who are interesting to you, the rest is then more or less a no-brainer - like magic :-)

Clearly communicate your career aspirations and goals to your supervisors and HR leadership team. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss your career development plans, seek guidance on opportunities for advancement within the organization, and express your interest in pursuing promotional opportunities in HR Operations. Demonstrate your commitment to growth and advancement through your actions and contributions in your current role.

Communicate your goals, yes, but also: - Demonstrate the alignment of your development goals with the needs of the business. - Adopt a proactive attitude by detailling your plan to get there, and your role's evolution. Part of the job is yours to convince the company about the added value of investing in your development for the company's benefit.

Take a close look at whether the new position you are aiming for corresponds to your strengths at all and can fill your heart and ignite your passion and motivation. If not, don't do it. Job satisfaction is more important than titles and money.

~Understand the role, responsibilities, JD, hierarchy, scope of the next role as well as the people I must collaborate closely and strategically ~Reflection on my “personality” and assess if it aligns with my aspirations and if I am capable of fulling the demands of that position ~Examine my present and anticipated skill/competencies level ~Review my last 2 – 3years’ PMS ratings/results. ~Ask well wishers for advice - consider other’s view point ~Update and upgrade my knowledge, technology, qualification ~Develop next level thinking ~ As nothing wrong to do Self Branding, show case my achievements, recognitions, network ~Build my case with justification - win the confidence of superiors and team(s)

In addition to the steps outlined above, consider seeking out stretch assignments or special projects within HR Operations that allow you to showcase your skills and potential for leadership. Take initiative in proposing innovative solutions to challenges or identifying areas for improvement within HR Operations, demonstrating your readiness for a promotion. Seek out opportunities for mentorship or sponsorship from senior leaders within the organization who can provide guidance, support, and advocacy as you pursue your career goals in HR Operations. Finally, remain adaptable and resilient in the face of setbacks or obstacles, and maintain a positive attitude and determination to achieve your goals.