How to climb the corporate ladder
How far we get in life is made up of the decisions we make on a daily basis.
In this day and age, hard work isn’t the only factor which will get you ahead.
If that were the case then most people would have the promotion and climbing the ladder would be easier.
Reliability, resourcefulness, eagerness and your willingness to learn will separate you from the rest. Here are a few other ways to climb the corporate ladder.
Don’t wait to be told
If you want to climb the corporate ladder, you’ll have to stand out from the rest. If you have the mentality that you’ll just be a wallflower and do the minimum, then you won’t be recognised. People who climb their way up to management positions are people who take initiative. They’re dedicated and are willing to go the extra mile even when they aren’t asked. They find solutions to problems and put themselves out there. Others may look at them as the “suck ups of the company” but they don’t pay attention as they are too busy strategising ways to get noticed and make an impact in the company. They are innovative and are willing to think outside the box when everybody is busy doing the expected.
Do your best and then do more
Sometimes, it’s not only about producing quality work but other factors also play a role. When you do additional work you’ll be more visible because you’re taking on more responsibility. Ask your supervisor for more tasks or find ways where you can make a difference at work. When you’re able to do more than what is asked, your supervisor will have confidence in you and will know you’re always available and prepared to lend a helping hand when needed.
Upskill yourself
If you want to get ahead in your company, then upskilling is a no brainer. Bosses seek out employees who are willing to learn new skills or enhance their craft. And if you show initiative and are willing to learn a new skill set you’ll be on your boss’s radar. If your company gives you the opportunity to learn new skills, jump on board and learn something new. For example, you could be in the human resource department and your boss offers everyone the chance to upskill by taking a HR management course, be the first to be on board to show your boss you really want it.
Mingle with everyone
It’s not just what you know but who you know. Socialise, interact and get to know your team. Make sure you get along with others. It’s important that you fit in with the culture of the company and you have a good relationship with your colleagues. Your boss will notice you when you make an effort. Be helpful to not only your supervisors but to your co-workers as well.
Be consistent
In order to be someone that your boss can rely on at all times, you’ll need to be consistent. You’ll need to provide quality work at all times, meet your deadlines and come to work in time. These attributes all make a difference and put you in a league of your own. If you show your boss that you’re responsible and don’t have a dozen excuses why you can’t do certain tasks, then you’ll be noticed.
Be the favourite
Remember the class favourite in school? They were the ones always raising their hand when the teacher asked questions. And they always eagerly showed their enthusiasm for anything suggested by the teacher. Well, in order to be noticed you should find ways to be like that student. Search for ways to contribute to the company. Does your boss need volunteers? Does your company offer leadership programmes? Is there the way you can get involved with outside projects your company is involved in? Find ways to stick out like a sore thumb. Whatever you do, don’t blend in with the others.
Speak out
In the ideal world, climbing the corporate ladder would be based on merit alone but sometimes voicing where you want to be, can get you ahead. After all, the squeaky wheel gets the oil and the screeching child gets the attention. If you’re quiet, no one will know what your intentions are. But if you speak and let your boss know that you want to be promoted, something may just be done about it. Don’t be your own worst enemy by keeping quiet. Don’t be afraid to let the manager know about your career goals and where you plan to be.
The people who go far and climb the corporate ladder are the ones prepared to do the things which others won’t. They are recognisable not only for their hard work and dedication but also for their will to take initiative and do more than what’s expected of them.