Take note if you’ve been in your position for too long.
Career consultants often remind us that professional growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Success depends not only on initial skills, but also on the ability to work effectively, build relationships, and constantly develop. Simply performing duties rarely guarantees rapid professional growth.
Psychologist Christine Hammond names 15 ways to get a promotion up the career ladder.
1. Arrive early and plan your day
Showing up to the office before your workday starts isn’t just a show of diligence. It’s an opportunity to calmly plan your day, set priorities, and catch up on emails, allowing you to focus on key tasks rather than getting distracted by minor requests throughout the day.
Effective planning is the key to productivity. Use time management techniques and remember to do the most difficult task at the beginning of the day, when you have the most energy.
2. Stay late (within reason)
Regularly staying late at work is not always an indicator of efficiency. It is better to stay late only when it is really necessary – to complete an important project, prepare a presentation or solve an urgent task.
At the same time, it is important to be able to manage your time wisely and not sacrifice your personal life for the sake of work. Overwork reduces productivity and can lead to burnout. Pay attention to the quality, not the quantity of hours spent at work.
3. Strive for high results
High performance is not an abstract concept. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for your role and track your progress regularly.
Use task and project tracking tools to visualize your accomplishments and identify areas for improvement. Don’t be afraid to set ambitious goals and look for innovative solutions. Document your successes to have a strong argument when negotiating a promotion.
4. Get more done and delegate tasks
Do about 10% more than expected, but not at the expense of quality. Learn to delegate tasks effectively if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you encounter difficulties. Focus on tasks that bring the greatest value.
Automate routine tasks using available tools and technologies, such as chatbots for transcribing audio recordings.
5. Don’t get distracted
The world is full of distractions. Limit the use of social networks and instant messengers while working, turn off notifications on your phone. Create a comfortable and functional work environment that promotes concentration.
Use apps to block websites or productivity apps. It is important to learn how to manage your attention and focus on tasks. Practice meditation or mindfulness techniques to improve concentration.
6. Find a mentor
A mentor is a person who helps you navigate the company, develop professional skills, and build your career. This is especially important if you are just starting your new job.
Ask questions, seek feedback, and put your knowledge into practice. Don’t forget about gratitude and mutual respect.
7. Invest in relationships
Build positive and professional relationships with colleagues, managers and clients. Participate in company events, take initiative in communication and help others. Develop networking by communicating with people in your industry.
8. Be friendly
Friendliness and professionalism are the two pillars of a successful career. Respect the opinions of others, even if they differ from yours. Be punctual, observe the dress code and demonstrate etiquette in business communication. Remember that your reputation is your most valuable asset.
9. Never stop learning
The job market is constantly changing, so it is important to constantly develop and improve your skills. Take advanced training courses, read professional literature, participate in webinars and conferences. Invest in your education – this is a long-term investment in your career.
Keep up with trends in your industry and adapt your knowledge and skills to new realities.
13. Leave your comfort zone
There are always tasks in your work that go beyond your responsibilities. It is important not to be afraid of them and to take on new tasks, demonstrating to your manager that you are happy to try something new. And this is also a great opportunity to expand your professional horizons.
14. Make jokes
A sense of humor is a great characteristic for an employee; the main thing is that jokes and irony are appropriate and demonstrate intelligence, knowledge of human psychology and the current news field. A good joke can defuse the most tense situation.
15. Be patient
This is a very important quality. Remember that you need to be patient not only with yourself, but also with others. We all develop and learn at our own pace, you shouldn’t rush your colleagues. And don’t rush your boss with your promotion, let his decision mature as if by itself.