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Do You Want To Be Promoted?

IntroductionGenerally, a promotion within any educational institution/company is a goal among most of the employees. It is not easy, but ambition, hard work, education and ongoing professional development will get you the promotion you aspire for.

Nowadays job demands are different than before such as what Jean Mayer said “Gone are the days that employees are "tapped on the shoulder" for promotion simply by showing up to work and not making waves. Employers want to see passion, leadership, a "whatever it takes" attitude and a solution-oriented team player poised for promotion.” (Seven Steps to Getting Promoted)1

Keep in mind that promotion is not only going up the ladder, it could also be a lateral move. In addition to developing a bigger network, one could gain more skills, experiences and knowledge by performing the functions of another position at the same level.

Some Steps that may lead to a promotion;

I. Let your management know you are doing a great job. Let your supervisor or decision-making people know of your successful achievements at your department without “showing off” or tooting your horn. For example submitting a detailed monthly report will inform your immediate supervisor of your achievements during the month.

II. Be popular and share your knowledge. One would think that if you work hard, you know your material,

and you do a good job, you deserve to be promoted. Nowadays this is not enough. You should use and develop your people skills. Be kind and helpful to your peers, supervisors and other staff. Develop a strong relationship with other workers. Establish networking system with outside agencies and participate in the social activities/outreach events of your institution/company.

III.Ensure your desire to be promoted is known among decision makers.

Don’t hesitate to tell your immediate supervisor about your career goals. Maintain excellent work productivity and attitude within your current work no matter how stressful or how boring it could get.

IV. Improve your knowledge and skills.

Enroll in fast track courses and college classes in order to obtain higher degrees or skills that you think will be required to climb the institution ladder. For example, an additional computer skills course in accounting, learning another language or pursuing a higher degree could be required for a higher position.

V. Be in search of a “good” mentor.

Look for a good and more experienced mentor (in addition to your boss) with whom you can talk openly and honestly about work related issues and help you to grow. In the long run this mentor will also be your back bone for your promotion. In reference to Jean Maye’s “good mentors can point out your blind spots, offer suggestions, applaud your success, and guide your career.” (Seven Steps to Getting Promoted)1

VI.Present yourself professionally.

Imagine yourself in the new position you are aiming for. Make it your goal and achieve it step by step. Show strong commitment to your current position and responsibilities. For instance be prompt in arriving and leaving work.

VII. Avoid petty gossip and office politics

Though it is very important to be aware of office politics, be careful not to get involved in office gossip and politics. Your “emotional intelligence” and maturity should prevail. You should maintain honesty and loyalty to your boss, the institution you serve and your career.

VIII. Stay in the course.

It is said that “Rome wasn't built in a day.”

Be patient even if you do not get promoted by several attempts. Continue to stay focused on your goal. Don’t forget the longer you wait, you build more skills, increase networking and grow in self-confidence. 

“Patience is not the ability to wait but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting.” Joyce Meyer

ADAPTATIONS FROM:

1. Maye, V. Jean, (2013, Oct.24). Career Advancement: 7 Steps to getting promoted. Chicago Jobs, Retrieved from http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/jobs/sns-jobs-steps-promotion,0,6989913.story

2. Reid, Mairead (Ed), (n.d). how to get a promotion. Wiki how to do anything, Retrieved from http://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Promotion

  Submitted by: Juana JuhaSecretary to the Library DirectorBethlehem University Library