Careers are often stifled by one of two things. Either the person isn’t motivated to take their own career to the next level, or the company doesn’t see them as being up to the challenge and they either hire someone external to fill the void above them or promote somebody else from the team to take up the mantle.
As an ambitious person this can be particularly frustrating, watching colleagues flourishing in their new roles when you’ve been stuck in the same role for years – even having been in the company far longer than the newly promoted person. This can drive some employees to seek positions in other companies or industries, taking the view that they’re never going to get the promotion or pay increase that they either desperately need or feel they deserve.
Unfortunately, some companies are like that. They would rather bring in proven personnel with experience in managerial or team leading roles rather than giving the chance to existing employees and, rightly or wrongly, sometimes you just have to accept it and try to make the best of the situation.
Giving up isn’t in some people’s nature and for them there is only one solution – to prove to their bosses that they are up to the challenge and that they are ready for and deserving of a promotion. So how do you do this? These top tips for progressing in house will aid you in your quest, so pull up a chair and take tons of notes…
The first tip is to learn everything you possibly can about your current role and how you can improve your existing skills. Whether you’re working in manufacturing, IT sales recruitment or even social media management it pays to know everything you can and to show willing to go that extra mile. Some companies provide a training budget for their staff, encouraging them to go to events, conferences and training days so if you are aware of any, ask to go. It shows both willing to learn and develop even if the company say no.
Next, if you have the ability and platform, try to write for your company blog or news page. Getting your name ‘out there’ is good for your own reputation and that of the firm if you can showcase something new to the audience through your experience and expertise. Not only does this show the ability to stand up and present what you know to the wider world it also gets your name in front of the bosses and industry professionals.
Another idea is to take any new employees, particularly those who are young and inexperienced, under your wing to help to teach them new things. This shows your leadership qualities and also that you’re willing to go the extra mile for your colleagues, helping them to become the best they can be in their role which benefits both them and the company.
Essentially, in order to progress in-house, you need to show your employers that you are willing to do everything and anything to improve your own abilities and offerings, and also those of your colleagues. Being able to educate and inspire are crucial assets that the company can use both ‘on the shop floor’ and ‘upstairs’ and if you can prove your worth to the firm, you’ll get the rewards you deserve in the end.