In Need Of A Career Jump? How To Ask For A Promotion

Asking for a promotion is one of the most important moves you can make in your career, but it can also be very intimidating. It’s natural to want to make a transition upward to avoid becoming too comfortable and stagnant in your position, and an employer will agree. Employers want their employees to be happy and often look internally first to fill new positions, so here are a few tips to help you take the initiative and ask for a promotion:

Preparation

It’s never too early to start preparing for a promotion. Whether you have a been employed for three months or three years, think about where you see yourself growing in the company and start working toward it. Take the initiative in projects and take on more responsibilities. Employers will take note, so when you feel like you are ready for a promotion the odds will already be in your favor.

Timing

Do your research on what is happening within the company. Know if there are any expansion plans or cutbacks. Also, check internal job boards or with HR to find out if there are any current openings within the company. The timing might never be perfect, but it’s key to be prepared and aware when speaking to your employer to state your case on how you can fit in with any changes.

Request a meeting

It’s the most basic step, but can be the most intimidating. Contact your employer directly in a professional manner via phone or email and request a meeting to discuss your employment. It might harm your cause if you spring into your employer’s office without prior notice to discuss your advancement goals. Once the meeting has been confirmed, you will need to prepare your case.

Results

Focus on what you have done and the results you have achieved. Have you consistently achieved major coverage for a client? Have you taken the initiative on any projects? Write these things down a day or two before your meeting and review them several times, and you will probably think of even more before your meeting. It might even help to refer to your initial job description and see if you can check off all the job responsibilities required for your position, and list any added responsibilities you have taken on.

Ending

Congratulations if you get the promotion! If not, don’t be discouraged. It may not be a reflection of your performance, but an internal shift in the company. Continue to focus on gaining more experience by requesting more responsibilities and taking the lead on new projects. It will benefit you the next time you seek a promotion or if you choice to grow elsewhere.

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