What does it takes to get promoted? First of all, stand out. “Toot your own horn”. Don’t wait for your leadership to notice what you’ve done or how much you’re accomplishing. They may never notice unless you bring it to their attention. Also, work on teams with other competent people. Every successful client I’ve worked with learned to surround him/herself with people who complement him/her and employees/colleagues who compensate for their weaknesses. If you make a great contribution to your team’s success, they will “toot your horn” for you.
Secondly, work on your personal brand. Success comes from self-packaging—maintaining your appearance and knowledge to create a lasting impression that uniquely distinguishes you. This can be accomplished by delivering added value to both your internal and external customers. Constantly update your knowledge, develop your skills, and seek highly visible projects. You can also do it though social networking sites like Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter.
Your personal brand consists of more than just your image. It’s not just determined by your technical expertise, your Rolex, your Blackberry, Bluetooth, or your Armani suit. Being a sharply dressed, well-accessorized professional may help. But, you must also refine your emotional and social intelligence. Evaluate yourself by repeatedly asking yourself the same questions I ask my clients:
- What emotions do I usually display when things are going well?
- What about when things aren’t going so well?
- Are co-workers and employees comfortable around me? If no, why not?
- When do people usually seek my assistance/expertise?
- What kind of projects do I do best?
- What personal traits do I think employees, colleagues, leadership find the most valuable?
- What are my three strongest professional traits?
Then, seek feedback by consulting your coworkers and colleagues. This is a simplified 360-degree evaluation. Ask them the same set of questions:
- What emotions do they usually see me display when things are going well?
- What emotion do they usually see me display when things aren’t going so well?
- What do they think is my greatest value to the company?
- What do they think are my three strongest professional traits?
- Which trait do I need to change the most?
- What jobs/projects/problems do they think would be most strategic for me?
Write down the results of this evaluation/feedback. Contrast the results to your desired scenario. Contrast your current strengths with those you want to include in your personal brand. Define measurable tasks to achieve your desired brand.
Again, I hope this was helpful. Please comment if you agree, disagree, or have an important point to add! Let me know what you think. Find out more about my leadership coaching and training programs designed to help you develop you or your organization. Check out my website: www.AdvantEdgeSuccessCoaching.com
Once there, you can sign up to receive my free bi-monthly ezine “Success Tips for Busy Leaders” and/or sign up to receive a free sample chapter of my new book Achieve Success In Spite of Stress.
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