Getting a promotion

“Plenty of men can do good work for a spurt and with immediate promotion in mind, but for promotion you want a man in whom good work has become a habit.”

------ Henry Doherty

A promotion opens the door to increased income, career advancement and experience. With rising costs of living and difficulties in meeting various expenditures, a promotion is a welcome development. But it is not easy to get; you have to be inspired to work and strong-minded in your approach.

How do you go about in getting that coveted elevation in your organization? Here are some tips:

·   Make your value known:  A promotion is just not possible without the endorsement of your boss. You have to create a favourable impression on him and convince him about your adeptness and sincerity. This can be done if you work hard and complete all assignments to the satisfaction of all and in best organizational interests. You could do this by working behind the curtain also, but it is necessary to get noticed and let your knack stand out. If your boss is witness to your hard work, he will definitely be impressed. And to impress him properly, besides being systematic in your approach, you need to also delegate responsibilities to juniors. All this may turn out to be nerve-racking, but you should be able to work under stress and strain as well. You have to establish your credibility and make your value known to be rewarded.

·   Boost the boss’ image as well:  You should not restrict your efforts in boosting your image only. You need to do so for the boss as well. This can be done if you apply yourself diligently to your work and adopt a positive attitude towards it. During routine conversations, he can be also spoken about for his abilities and that it is a great working experience to be part of his team. If an opportunity is afforded, you could team up with him for a special assignment. The crux of the matter is to endeavour to provide your best output; if you are noticed, your boss will feel good and will be more than willing to recommend a rise for you.

·   Be candid to ask for a promotion:  There is no harm in making your demand for a promotion known. You can seek an appointment with your boss and convince him that you have been working hard and to the satisfaction of all; and hence deserve a promotion. Remember that the reasons that you offer should be accurate, truthful and based on corroborated by factual information. You have to be persuasive and perceptive at the same time; the other person should also recognize your zeal to improve your skills. Normally, promotions are announced in bulk, but if you ask for one, you may get one subject to your boss being appreciative of you.

·   Project your image:  The best way to be included in a promotion list is by exerting yourself and giving more than the usual to your company. You need to go beyond your assigned charter of responsibilities to be acknowledged as a good employee. You have to work your way up and demonstrate that you really deserve a promotion. You could volunteer for additional responsibilities and even ask your boss if you could be of any assistance in his work. Of course, helping out your colleagues will always help you in getting recognized. There is no harm in occasionally staying after office hours once in a while to help others; but the most important aspect is to be punctual at all times.

A promotion is invariably accorded to those who toil the maximum and create for the company with what it requires to grow. And if your efforts help in generating profits, the better chance you have to be acknowledged and get a promotion.

You should not forget that your enthusiasm will always be the engine of your success. Remember that you were taken in by your company because you met their expectations; you need to surpass them to deserve a promotion.