The Art of Getting Promoted: What Employers Are Really Looking For

Jeff Van Pelt

Have you ever been surprised when you expected to be promoted but were passed over? If so, you may have over looked the criteria employers consider when promoting employees. Not being aware of these could be what is keeping you from getting the promotion you want.

Of course, employers look first to those who have the skills and experience for the job. They also look for those who enjoy working for the company and enjoy their work. But you can distinguish yourself from the crowd if you stand out as a team player, seek solutions for advancement of the company, keep a positive attitude, go beyond expectations, and work well with others.

Here are a few strategies for standing apart from the rest and improving your chances for a promotion.

Don’t be a clock watcher. Make a habit of getting to work and to meetings a few minutes early. You can use this time to have personal conversation and connect with others. Don’t always rush out at the end of the day, or worse, start packing up 15 minutes before quitting time to make sure you are ready to walk out of the door when the big hand strikes 12.

Build good relationships from the bottom of the company up. This is how you develop “connections.” Be friendly and respectful with everyone including those whose work is not directly related to yours. If you have ever left a file behind and had to enter a secured building after hours you’d be happy you had gotten to know the night security person. When a job opens in another department you want to be the first to hear about it through your network of contacts.

Don’t wait to be told what to do. Anticipate the needs of your team, your department, and your company. Step up and get the job done. Anticipate problems and propose innovative solutions before they occur. If you can help move projects along faster, offer your help.

Share your ideas. When you think you have an improvement idea, be sure to share your thoughts and a plan with your leader. Do not wait for someone to ask for your ideas. Sitting back and complaining is not likely to get you on the list of those to be promoted.

Our Fall 2008 issue will give you more tips to get you on your way to promotion from Dr. Jeff Van Pelt is a corporate wellness consultant.