Home Money & Career How to Get The Job Promotion You’ve Always Wanted

How to Get The Job Promotion You’ve Always Wanted

by Ryan Chambers
shaking hands at office
An employee gets the job promotion he had always wanted.

It’s easy to become complacent and accept your lot in corporate life, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want or deserve a job promotion. Your dream of climbing the corporate ladder for job promotion is still alive and well if you take a minute to answer the question honestly.

When you first started your job, did you see yourself moving up in the company? The answer is likely yes, even if you’re happy with your current position. It’s human nature to want to work towards a goal. This post will help clarify what it takes to succeed in your next career move.

Here are a few quick pointers;

  • Go above and beyond your job description.
  • Be proactive in getting work done instead of waiting for someone to come to you with a task.
  • Take on extra tasks, even if they don’t relate directly to your job description or don’t fall under the umbrella of what you were hired for. You might be surprised at how quickly these extra activities will add up!

5 Tips for Getting that Job Promotion You’ve Always Wanted

work in a factory
Worker following the strategy for a job promotion.

Suppose you’ve ever dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder; congratulations! You’re on track to get that job promotion. But if you’re still wondering how to get there, this post will help clarify what it takes to be successful in your next career move. Here are six tips for getting that job promotion you’ve always wanted:

Show Initiative

smiling man
A man files in for a job promotion at work.

Avoid using the phrase, “that’s not in my job description.” Instead, make an effort to show that you can take the initiative. This may include volunteering for overtime or staying late without being asked, helping a co-worker finish a project, or helping new hires get started. 

It’s important not only to be the first person in and the last one out but also to make sure that everything gets done on time, so no one else will see any delays left behind by other employees who might cause problems later down the road (or even now). Suppose someone forgets their lunch break or has an emergency at home during work hours. In that case, there’s no way around it—they need to call in sick for themselves or anyone else who needs temporary relief from their duties until things are sorted out with another employee. 

Of course, you don’t want to let your work suffer in the process. So don’t brag about the little extras you do. The powers that be are likely to pay attention to someone who is putting in some extra effort here and there. Showing leadership qualities is a good way to at least get noticed.

Go Back to School

A common reason for being passed up for job promotion is a lack of an advanced degree, which is required for higher-level positions. A great way to get ahead is by learning new skills that will make you more valuable to your company. You can also learn some of the same skills at a higher level, which will make you more valuable than someone who is simply doing what they were hired for. The key is not just being able to do the job but learning how to do it better than anyone else.

These days, there are many convenient ways to acquire some additional training or even earn an advanced degree, such as an MBA. Several universities offer online MBA programs. 

According to a 2000 AllBusiness.com survey of accountants, those without a degree earned an average salary of $38,920, while those with an MBA earned an average salary of $104,284. The increased earnings potential makes this a realistic consideration. Even taking a few classes to brush up on your skills can help.

Offer Solutions

Be proactive and offer solutions when problems arise. For example, if there is some minor conflict between co-workers, defuse the situation and offer an agreeable solution to both parties. A less dramatic example might be offering suggestions or solutions to problems brought up in meetings.

If you have a great idea for a marketing campaign, don’t be afraid to let your boss know that he or she should consider it! You’ll look like an empowered professional when you can speak up without being intimidated by the person sitting across from you—and no one wants that.

Even if you don’t have the magic solution, your boss is likely to appreciate you making an effort. If you deal with customers, make an extra effort to solve their problems and anticipate their needs. This shows good people skills, a highly valued quality.

Dress Like You’re Already in That Higher Position.

It’s quite important to dress for the job you want. However, it’s also important to dress for the job you have. That means not wearing a suit and tie every day and not dressing like a hipster or an underling.

When dressing appropriately for an interview, don’t forget that there are other people present besides yourself—they may be interviewing you too! Be sure to look presentable at all times (even when talking with friends), and remember: no matter how good-looking someone is, they’re still human beings first and foremost, so treat them with respect regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

If it’s your first day at work or if it’s just another normal weekday afternoon in your cubicle (and not just because everyone else was busy completing their Friday chores), then keep these pointers in mind:

  • Wear clothes that fit well enough, so they don’t lose their shape when worn over time.
  • Avoid tight clothing as much as possible because it can show off cellulite on thighs if worn regularly over long periods.
  • Choose dark colors instead of bright ones since darker tones tend toward dullness, while brighter hues tend toward vibrancy.

The impressions you create by your looks go a long way in how people think about you. Here are a few office wears that pose you ready for higher positions at the office.

Sale
PJ PAUL JONES Men's Black Long Sleeve Button Down Dress Shirts Designer Slim Fit Dress Shirts Office Wear (Black,L)
  • Material:Polyester/Cotton Mens dress shirts with high quality for a soft handfeel and maximum comfort.
  • PJ PAUL JONES dress shirts for men featuring classic shirts style.Long sleeve,button down shirts with collar and solid shirts.
  • Paul Jones mens dress shirts slim fit long sleeve causal shirt tops. Stylish fitted dress shirts which match with your formal trousers,jeans or long pants,great for all seasons and occasions.
  • Dress shirts with classic and slim fit! This collared shirt perfect for vocation, date,holiday or as a gift for Christmas, Valentine's Day or Father's Day to your boyfriend,son or father.And this classic dress shirts for wedding,work,business wear,office,formal shirts or daily casual wear which is the best shirts for men.
  • Notice: Please Check Sizing Info to Ensure Your Size Prior to Ordering.Avaliable in Black/Navy Blue/Light Blue/Dark Grey/Purple/Wine Red/White/Royal Blue/Brown/Army Green from S-5XL that fit for any body size.
COOFANDY Men's Cardigan Sweater Casual Stand Collar Button Down Knitted Office Cardigan with Pockets Gray
  • Fabric: The use of premium soft and suitable elastic fabrics, combined with sophisticated cable knitting technology, makes this men's cardigan soft and warm to wear, wider size fitted, comfortable and durable.
  • Features: Gentle and a classic style-half-high neck cardigan, with a traditional Irish twist pattern design, creating a retro and cool look, long sleeves, solid color, diamond cable knit details on the front,textured buttons, warm and practical pockets on the front, which is a safe casual outfit can still be really interesting.
  • Match: For the wanna styles and feelings of a casual outfit or an office dress semi-formal look, this button closure cardigan sweater can try pairing a cardigan with t-shirts, downjackets, chinos, jeans, dress pants, boots, canvas low top sneakers, ect. It is very versatile and apt for whatever the day throws at you.
  • Occasion: The men's cardigan is stylish and yet it's laid-back and ready for anything, which is great for daily dressing at home, dating, park picnicing, dinner with friends, also be a office cardigan for men in working, business, interviews, as well as the surprise Christmas and birthday gifts to boyfriend, husband, friends, and dad.
  • Notice: Machine washable, laundry bag is recommended. Casual size. Can take the size chart and model's information in the detail page into account before ordering.
Sale
Lee Men's Performance Series Extreme Comfort Slim Pant, Taupe, 33W x 30L
  • SLIM FIT. With a slim fit through the hip and thigh, these men's pants sit at the natural waist with a flex waistband for comfort. These slim fit pants provide a modern look that keeps you comfortable all day long.
  • EXTRA STORAGE. These straight fit pants are designed with four pockets with a timeless look, perfect for most occasions.
  • LIVE IN COMFORT. The Extreme Comfort Pant offers work-to-play versatility. Athletic details like mesh pockets, a flex waistband and Active Comfort Fabric make these pants insanely comfortable and offer a modern look.
  • A LIFETIME OF QUALITY. For over 100 years, Lee has produced quality apparel with durability and long-lasting construction in mind. Lee is committed to designing clothing that conforms to your body, allowing you to move through life freely.
  • SPECIFICATIONS. Zipper fly with button closure, leg opening: 15".
Sale
Men Suits Slim Fit 3 Piece Royal Blue Business Wedding Suits Tuxedos Groomsmen Prom Blazer Jacket Vest Pants Men Suit Set S
  • SLIM FIT -- This formal/wedding suit set is with slim fit cut from 3D draping. This will a little tighter than regular suits. But it will be easier to present your perfect figure. You will become the focus of the occasion throughout the day after you wearing it.
  • OCCASIONS -- Easy to match with any formal/business tuxedo shirt in wedding, party, business, graduation, date, work, meeting, prom and banquet. It is also a good choice as a gift for your friend, father, brother and son.
  • SUPERIOR MATERIAL -- 80% Polyester and 20% Viscose for outer, it is comfortable, breathable, softer, smoother, easier to wash and keep the shape. Inner is polyester fiber , it is breathe freely and absorb sweat.
  • CARE INSTRUCTION -- If conditions permit, dry clean recommended. If you have to hand wash it, please keep the water temperature below 40 degrees and wash gently. Steam ironing, hang the suit on the hangers when you are not wearing it.
  • CUSTOMER SERVICE -- Your Satisfaction is Our Top Priority. We believe the quality of our products, we think you should be given the chance to try us out without any risk. You can free return within 30 days if you are not satisfied. But most of our customer keep it and buy again. Such a STYLISH men 3 piece slim fit suit set. You Deserve It.
Sale
Perry Ellis mens Portfolio Modern-fit Performance Dress Pants, Mood Indigo, 33W x 32L US
  • VARIOUS INSEAMS: 29", 30", 32" and 34"
  • MOISTURE WICKING: With built-in moisture-wicking technology, these trousers for men provide a dry fit that’s comfortable for all day wear by moving perspiration away from your body.
  • NON IRON: The men's pants are non-iron so they keep their smooth good looks from day to night. They're a particularly good choice for business travelers as they don't need to be ironed after packing or flying on an airplane.
  • MODERN FIT: These men’s flat front pants feature a modern fit with a straighter leg and narrower bottom hem. The sleek look strikes an excellent balance between form and function at the office or formal gathering.
  • STRETCH FABRIC: With mechanical stretch built into the fabric of the men’s flat front pants, you’ll enjoy greater comfort and won’t feel confined throughout your many movements.
Sale
Bruno Marc Men's Prince-16 Black Leather Lined Dress Oxfords Shoes Size 11 M US
  • Men’s derby dress shoes designed in USA
  • Soft synthetic leather upper features a plain toe
  • Classic lace-up construction for a secure fit
  • Premium leather lining and light padded latex footbed for all-day comfort
  • Flexible and comfortable Derby Oxfords with durable outsole. Wooden Heel height: 1 inch (approx)

Learn from Others

Most people don’t tend to appreciate someone who always has the answers to everything. Show a willingness to learn from others. If a co-worker has a better idea, acknowledge it and thank them. Seek advice from your boss and co-workers who have more experience than you.

The first step to climbing the corporate ladder is learning how to communicate. Of course, you can’t expect others to know what you’re thinking or feeling if your words are unclear or confusing, but you must understand how they think and feel so that they can understand yours. 

When communicating with others, be clear and concise in what you say; use the right tone of voice when speaking with people; make sure your body language shows them that there’s mutual respect between you two; ask questions as much as possible.

The more willing you are to learn; the better. Don’t be frightened to make mistakes and admit them. Making mistakes here and there won’t automatically toss you off the corporate ladder. It’s how you handle it. Admit your mistakes, sincerely apologize, learn from them, and move on. A positive attitude and an ability to learn from your mistakes are skills likely to get you noticed in a good way.

You’re probably wondering how a person can get promoted when they don’t have any experience in the field. The answer is that it takes more than just being good at your job—you must also be able to deliver results, which means that you need to work on time and take responsibility for it.

victory at work
Man finally gets the job promotion he always wanted.

Mentors can be the difference between getting a job promotion and falling behind your colleagues. They are the people who have been in the same position as you, so they know what it takes to be at the top of their game and how to navigate office politics. So if you’re looking for quick career growth, look for someone who has been there before and ask them how they did it—they’ll have advice on everything from networking skills to learning new skills to get ahead.

Mentors can also help with other things besides finding opportunities: they can give advice on how best to use your skillset or experience so that they don’t waste time doing things wrong; they’ll guide you through difficult situations where an expert would make things easier; or even just show up when times get tough so that nothing seems impossible!

Summary

Job promotions are rare in some companies these days, especially as many companies choose to eliminate and consolidate positions rather than promote when something becomes available. This makes it very important to go above and beyond the call of duty when possible, learn some new skills, show off your people skills, or even earn an advanced degree. In today’s competitive job market, anything that sets you apart from the competition is a plus.

On a side note, if you plan to get ahead in your career, you need to ask for what you deserve. Just like any other job, climbing the corporate ladder requires hard work and dedication, but it also comes with opportunities that might not come your way otherwise. If you’re ready to take on these challenges, then there’s no better time than right now!

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