Demonstrate Don't Demand: Your Next Promotion in 3 Steps

Valentine’s Day spotlights relationships, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to reflect on another crucial type of relationship, our professional ones. Effective communication is key in all interactions, whether personal or professional.

The article below focuses on communicating assertively and confidently in the workplace, particularly when seeking a promotion. This is a critical skill, especially for women leaders who are often challenged to set themselves apart and lead by example.

Step One: Open Dialogue with Supervisors

The first step towards a promotion is understanding what it entails. Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss the skills, responsibilities, and achievements needed to qualify for the next level.

Approach this conversation with curiosity and professionalism, not entitlement. Ask for feedback on your current performance and what specific improvements or milestones they expect to see. The more detailed guidance you can gather, the more straightforward the next step will become.

Step Two: Create a Development Plan

Based on the feedback, develop a plan outlining how to seek, learn, and develop the necessary skills and experience. This might involve taking on new projects, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship within the company.

It’s crucial to set realistic timelines. Typically, it takes 6 to 12 months to work towards a promotion to the next level. However, this can vary depending on your organization and the seniority of the position. Document your progress meticulously, taking note of milestones and achievements to help you build a case for your promotion.

Step Three: Prepare for Your Performance Review

When it’s time for your performance review, come prepared with a well-organized presentation of your accomplishments aligned with the goals discussed with your supervisor. Remember that you should be able to demonstrate sustained effort and capability, not just occasional success, because, in your new role, you will need to perform these functions consistently.

Highlight how you’ve met or exceeded each requirement, using specific examples and data to support your case. This approach shows that you’re serious about your career development and capable of taking on greater responsibilities.

Pro Tip: Approach the conversation with a mindset of mutual benefit. Emphasize how your advancement can also help achieve team or organizational goals. This shifts the conversation from what you “deserve” to how you can add more value.

Communicate with Confidence, Not Entitlement

It’s important to differentiate between assertive and aggressive communication. Assertiveness involves clearly and respectfully communicating your needs and achievements without undermining others. In contrast, aggressive communication often comes off as demanding or entitled, which can be detrimental to your professional image.

While these steps don’t guarantee a promotion, they significantly increase your chances by demonstrating your initiative, readiness, and alignment with organizational goals. More importantly, they establish you as a thoughtful and proactive member of your team.

This approach prepares you for promotions and enhances your communication skills, making you a more effective leader and colleague. As we consider the essence of Valentine’s Day and the importance of relationships, remember that professional relationships built on respect, clarity, and mutual growth are key to long-term career success.

Follow me Kelly Featheringham, ACC for regular tips for women leaders.