It is THAT time of year, when we are evaluating our lives: at home and work. AND we are setting targets, goals and aims for the year. I know a number of clients who have ambitions to progress with their careers: either moving to another company at a higher grade, or to be promoted internally.

Here are three skills you need to ensure you are ‘ready’ to be promoted; after all, you will have a different role at a higher level, so you need to demonstrate you can deliver at this new level.

Be present; in meetings, in conversations, asking questions at presentations, responding to emails, making polite (!) conversation in the corridor/lift/watercooler. People notice you; they get to know you and provided you aren’t a PAIN, they will start to recognise your talents. Of course part of this is NETWORKING, but ensuring you are present at other business conversations is key to your personal brand.
Volunteer within your organisation. See if you could step up and be involved in high profile projects; fundraising events your company organises, or even to be a specific spokesperson for your organisation within the community – and remember to shout about it. Clients of mine have become local outreach spokespeople for their organisations; gaining invaluable experience, skills and raising their profile within their organisation. They have had to liaise with individuals in the company at different levels, and have become known and recognised. It is a win win situation!
Have a plan of action for being promotion ready, and have someone to support you with this. Your mentor or support will be able to discuss your previous appraisals and any feedback that could identify areas to work on as well as celebrating your successes.