Career Progression… how to get it.

Career progression is often at the top of the wishlist when we speak to candidates about why they are looking to make a move! And rightly so – we naturally look to seek out challenges and want to find ways to continue to develop ourselves professionally and personally.   

Georgie takes us through her top tips to ensure you don’t get overlooked for promotion or progression (because it isn’t always wrapped up in a title change!)

1.        Be proactive and be consistent

One of the biggest killers of promotion prospects is not showing initiative and being proactive in seeking out further responsibility. Whether you are a sales associate looking to take the first step into management or a manager seeking greater responsibility, it is important to demonstrate your genuine interest in the opportunity and your ability to do so consistently. Being intuitive to those around you and exhibiting a strong work ethic on a consistent are steps you can take whether you have a title or not.

2.        Ask for feedback (and take it on board!)

The best way to improve and develop your skillset is through seeking feedback and advice. It can be very hard to understand your impact and genuine capabilities without consulting those around you and your manager will be the one evaluating your promotion so, who better to ask! The most important thing in asking for feedback is taking the time to listen and take on board their advice and then genuinely implement their suggestions. It can be difficult to take on what you may perceive to be criticism but don’t stand in the way of your own success, feedback is the most important tool in your toolbox.   

3.        Communicate effectively

One of the biggest contributors to the success (or failure) of a business is communication. As a leader it is up to you to set the tone in communication, so whether you are currently in a leadership role or looking to be promoted into one, your ability to communicate clearly and effectively is a key consideration. It is important to always frame things with positivity – a leader is not someone who speaks down or dictates to others. The most important part of communication is to remember it is not what you say, but how you say.

 4.        If you don’t ask you don’t get!

One of the biggest lessons I have learnt in my career and through my time in recruitment is that in so many cases, opportunities are overlooked or missed as you had never expressed your interest. It may seem obvious to you you are ready for the next step but, if you don’t express that explicitly to the people above you, they may not notice your ambition. There is never any harm to be done by expressing your desire as long as you choose your moment wisely – it is often a good idea to arrange a time to speak in private to your manager so that the conversation is professional and your intention taken genuinely.

5.        Time

My closing piece of advice is to remember that progression and promotion take time. You must truly master your role before you take on the next one and there is nothing to be gained from jumping into the next thing too soon. At the beginning of your career you may want it all but remember to take in your surroundings and immerse yourself in every experience because it’s a long (and fruitful) journey to the top so you don’t want to miss the view!