Even if you are on a temporary assignment or if you are very new to the company, there is no better time to prove your value than when you make that first impression.

When managers look for who should be promoted with a new title, new responsibilities (and that all-important pay bump), they’re looking for someone who stands out among their peers with their energy, enthusiasm and the ability to take initiative. They’re also looking for someone who will be a leader among their team — all of this can be you! 

1. Raise your hand to lead. When a new and interesting project lands in your department, even if you are not already assigned, short your interest and willingness to join the team. This shows you’re interested not just in your job but eager to help the company. By stepping up, you’re showing a willingness to go the extra mile while building and showing off your organization expertise. It may only be small tasks at first, but what supervisor doesn’t want to reward your commitment? It’s only a small step from outstanding effort to earning a leadership role in the project. Leading a team also takes a lot of strong people skills; what better way to develop those than through practice! Lead a project and you’re on your way.
2. Be a great listener. Communication skills, especially listening, are critically important for team players and, most importantly, for team leaders. It’s more than just hearing the words people say to you; it’s understanding the context and catching all the details of instructions provided to you or concerns brought your way. As a leader, you’ll need to be able to understand the big picture of what’s being communicated to you and, in return, relay that information clearly to your team. When listening to a presentation, a meeting, a colleague or even just a regular conversation, pay close attention to the person speaking, allowing them to finish their thought. Then, when the time is right, rephrase what you believe you heard and understood and ask for confirmation that you’re on the right page. If something was amiss, or if you’re confused about something, ask follow-up questions and jot down the answer so you’ll have details to reference later. When giving instructions to other people, allow them to ask you questions as well and provide patient, thorough answers to avoid any confusion.
3. Ask for feedback. Some people avoid feedback because they’ve had unfortunate experiences where feedback was code for criticism. Others are willing to dish it out but don’t like to take it. A strong leader knows feedback is valuable and important for learning and moving forward. While you might not always agree 100% with someone’s thoughts on your work, or your leadership techniques, listen to what they have to say and see what you can learn from it. Treat every feedback opportunity as a practice in improving your work and building your skills, becoming a better leader and employee with every turn. When responding to feedback, be sure to include some of the same language used by your teammates to show that you’re paying attention and taking their thoughts into deep consideration — it’s a sign of respect.

If you want to move up in your job, start taking these actions today! You might be surprised how quickly things start to move once your manager knows you’re interested in advancing your career — and that you’d like to stay at your current company to do so.

However, if you’ve raised your hand to take on extra work, sharpened your listening and communication skills and have welcomed feedback with open arms, and an open mind, but still haven’t been promoted, it might be time to look for a new opportunity. If that’s the case, it’s time to call ABLE Associates. We’ll work with you to find a great new job where your talents and ambition will be appreciated and welcomed! Take a look at the jobs we’re working to fill, then give us a call and we’ll help you from there.