Working Your Way to a Promotion

April to June is a tough time of the year for career folks. This is when most companies do their performance appraisals. Negotiations are made, decisions are taken, and some will get the promotions they desired. Others will not.

This year is even more unpredictable with the uncertain economy, tougher competition, higher expectations and increased work load. However there a few best practices that improve your chances of getting what you want.

While most advice is geared towards what you should do to get a promotion there are some common mistakes to definitely avoid.   

Flattering the boss will not get you far. So, while its fine to drop your boss a well-meaning compliment occasionally, stay away from blatant flattery.  

Just because you spent a considerable time in the organization does not inherently entitle you to a promotion. So stop thinking you deserve a promotion.

Relying on work alone to get that promotion may not be enough. Today, everyone needs to build relationships – with peers, with subordinates as well as with bosses and managers.

Do not compare your effort with others. To convince the boss that you are the right pick for the job  do not resort to criticism of others. Likewise, don’t complain about what others are not doing. It undermines your own credibility.

While avoiding these common mistakes there are also some key areas you need to pay attention to, when striving for promotion. 

Go above and beyond. Own the projects you work on from start to finish. In the end, your contributions should have added value and your manager should be able to see that you have not just performed a job.

Help your team members. Be collaborative, while demonstrating your leadership skills where necessary. Have a positive attitude at the workplace. People should be happy to have you around.

Be communicative about your accomplishments. Let key people know what you achieved in a periodical way. Without getting noticed, you are unlikely to be remembered for a promotion.

Ask for feedback from your supervisor and be clear and straightforward about desiring to advance your career. Don’t wait until the last moment to ask.

Follow these and you should be well on your way up the ladder.

To get more information on promotion and performance appraisal, visit infyni.com

Author: Dr. Anjana Das