How to Earn a Promotion in Six Steps

This article originally appeared on Andres Manuel Olivares Miranda’s LinkedIn profile on Feb. 7, 2018. Be sure to connect with Andres on LinkedIn!

Do you ever have the feeling that you are ‘stuck in a rut’ at work? Often, employees may become tired of the same repetitive tasks or feel as if they are not meeting their full potential. If the previous statement matches your description, here are six steps to earning a promotion in 2018.

Critique Yourself

Is your current performance up to par? Does your company value your input and are you often the go-to person for new or challenging assignments? If your answer to both of those questions was ‘yes,’ then you are obviously an asset to the organization and your contributions make a positive impact. If your answer was ‘no,’ you should reexamine your position and work on improvements before applying for a promotion.

Discuss Your Achievements and Goals

Since the new year has started, have a formal discussion with your manager about your work history. Determine how your contributions have played a role in the organization’s goals and mission. Develop a career plan with a list of what you hope to accomplish in the next quarter or semiannually. Once you have written the foundation for your plan, visualizing your aspirations is much easier.

Research and Reorganize

Learn about the intricacies of the position you are seeking. Does it require certain skills and certifications that you lack? Expand your repertoire and increase your visibility among your coworkers and management. Volunteering also expresses your initiative, and if you handle additional responsibilities well, others see that you are able to handle the pressures of a new position.

Dress for the Part

A good self-image not only boosts your confidence, it shows others that you care about your appearance and are a positive representation of the company. This does not mean that you should buy a new wardrobe, but presenting yourself professionally is sure to expand your options.

Ask and Apply

Ask for the promotion and obtain feedback from your manager. Ensure your boss supporters your ideas and aspirations, then apply for the position.

Be Patient

Good leaders are not built overnight. Maintain your course, increase your skill set, network, and wait—there are certainly better days in store.