How to Get Yourself Promoted! (Katy’s Korner)
It can be difficult to sit by and watch others get promoted while you are stuck in the same position at work that you were three years ago. If you feel you are constantly getting passed up for promotion at your current job, there’re a few things you can do.
1. Improve your skills. Do you work with computers? Make sure you’re up-to-date with the latest software. You can take a class to improve proficiency or ask your boss if she can recommend a good course.
If you work with the public, try learning a new language. You won’t need to become fluent, but knowing basic communication and the correct terms for your field of occupation can make quite an impression on your patrons and your boss. Learning rudimentary communication for your new language doesn’t have to be costly or take up too much time. There’s plenty of free apps available for smartphones that can teach you a language in your free time.
2. Appear more professional. There’s truth to the old saying “dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” You might be surprised to know that dress clothes cost around the same amount as casual clothes, as long as they aren’t a designer brand.
Unless you work at a place where body piercings and tattoos are expected, take them out or keep them covered. Sadly, tattoos and piercings have been proven through research to have a negative effect on employees getting hired and promoted.
3. Let your boss know that you want more responsibility. Sometimes managers don’t offer employees promotions just because they don’t know their employee is interested. Telling your boss that you want more out of your career may show her that you are not only capable but genuinely desiring more from your life. It will also make her realize that if you aren’t promoted soon, that there is a real possibility of you moving to another company. If you have years of experience in your position, your boss probably won’t want to lose you.
Getting the most out of life means getting the most out of your career. If you follow these steps but don’t get promoted to a higher position within six months to a year, begin job hunting. You deserve to be recognized for the skills and experience you bring to the table. – Katy
