Jeff McLanahan
Contributing Writer
American Residential Services

As we move through your careers, many of us believe that if we work hard and do a good job, we will move up in our company.  While this is usually the standard, there are some specific things we can do to increase our chances for a promotion.

• Do Your Job, And Then Some. Job roles, and the tasks and duties assigned to them are constantly changing.  Saying, “That is not my job,” is a quick way to limit your chances for promotion.  Be flexible and willing to take on stretch assignments or projects that fall outside the scope of your current role.  Be comfortable with change.

• Be Proactive Versus Reactive. Take initiative.  Don’t wait around for someone to tell you exactly what to do and when to do it.  This does not mean to abandon all guard rails set up by the company, but if you are given a starting point, an end point, and the guard rails previously mentioned, don’t expect a detailed roadmap as well.  Get started.  Chart your own course and reach the finish line.

• Be On The Lookout For Process Improvements. It sounds simple to say, but you do your job every day.  There is no one better to identify ways to streamline processes and make them more efficient and effective.  You may not be able to change some things on your own.  When this occurs, formulate a plan and present it to your supervisor.  Anticipate the list of possible questions you will be asked and be prepared to explain your vision.

• Showcase Your Skills. Do not just serve on a committee or project, make an impact.  Contribute to the overall success and display your skills to employees in other departments as well as the leaders of those teams.  Be careful not to appear too boastful or claim all the credit but be sure to professionally highlight your accomplishments.

• Grow Your Internal Network. There is a good book on networking by Harvey Mackay titled Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty.  The book discusses building relationships before you need them.  Remember that a relationship is a two-way street.  Think about what you might “give” to another person, not just what you will “get” from the relationship.  This approach will build your reputation for being an asset to others within the company.

Navigating the path to promotion involves doing your current role effectively and efficiently while connecting with fellow employees, providing assistance wherever and whenever necessary, and communicating/highlighting your contributions to the overall success in a professional manner.

Not all people are a good fit for management and many people do not even want such a role.  If you are one of those that is looking for a promotion, get started on the path today.