How to get a promotion? 4 Strategies

Over the last three decades, I remember each moment when I got a promotion; the family and friends I called; and how I celebrated. You see, a promotion is a special thrust in one’s life. Promotions build self-esteem and confidence. A promotion is an endorsement by one’s supervisor, team and the company in our skills and talent. Promotions are a reward for a job well done but as much sets expectations ahead. Promotions, as well, are great for companies as it builds loyalty and spurs motivation. Yet sparce research or a framework exists on how to get promoted. Dr. Marcie LePine and I are ambitious, perhaps too ambitious, on the work we contemplate in this area.?

Here are 4 simple strategies you can adopt starting today. Each alone boosts prospects for a promotion. All four together catapults you beyond your own expectations.?

1.????Be an authentic optimist: Supervisors and companies have a natural bias towards those who consistently exhibit a positive attitude. Those who believe in the purpose and their ability to deliver outcomes. Be an optimist when nobody is watching you.?

2.????Model a firefighter: No organization is devoid of fire-drills. From a response to the pandemic to an unmet aspiration of a customer, there are situations that arise that require leadership. Volunteering brings you visibility. More importantly, it builds leadership skills. Look out for that next crisis that you can help address.?

3.????Contribute to strategy: A coach once told me “you are too busy on your own metrics, while your peer is contributing to the broader strategy of your supervisor.” The feedback stung. True, your supervisor likes the fact that you hit your metrics. But the hard truth is that your supervisor is consumed in his/her own realm and challenges. For your next 1-1, think hard what broader areas matter to your supervisor and find a way to contribute to the strategy. That way you go from “sustenance” for your supervisor to “essential.”

4.????Build your best team. Create a network of top talent with a diversity of expertise and forge new relationships. Recruit and develop big talent; bigger than oneself. Be a mentor or mentee. Give your connections visibility. This lifts you up. Towards a promotion.?

Now, go get that promotion you deserve in 2022 itself. Starting today put any of these 4 strategies to work. And when you do get that promotion, make that call to someone you love and share your achievement with pride.??