There’s a wealth of advice out there on how to snag a promotion. Especially for many workers in the U.S. right now, given the challenges in the job market, climbing the ladder within their current company seems appealing.
Sure, moving to a new employer can often result in a bigger salary increase. Employees who switch jobs typically see their pay jump by around 20%. And actually, if you have in-demand skills, that increase might range from 20% to even 30%. But, well, the specifics can really vary.
On the flip side, getting promoted within your current company usually brings in around a 10% raise. It’s not a huge leap. But there’s a benefit—you won’t have to start from scratch in a new workplace or adapt to a different corporate culture. So, looking for opportunities internally seems like a solid option.
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This year, around 10% of employees are expected to be promoted, according to a Mercer survey of over 800 employers. So if you’re aiming to be one of them, what should you focus on?
Strategies for Promotion
Experts often suggest that you should “cultivate your personal brand.” This can mean sprucing up your LinkedIn profile, sharing successes or insights from the workplace, and maybe even getting a new professional headshot.
Another tip is to bring unique value to your team or organization. If you’re eyeing a management position, you should showcase strategic leadership—perhaps by taking charge of important projects or enhancing team collaboration.
Moreover, continuous learning and skill development can be essential for advancement. Consider honing your expertise in areas that align with emerging business trends, like AI.
This approach not only signals your desire to learn but also your intention to contribute to your company’s success—something that resonates with decision-makers.
Networking is crucial too. Building relationships with senior leaders and key stakeholders can be beneficial.
Yet, getting face time with those in leadership positions might be tricky, especially in large, hierarchical companies. So, consider other ways to enhance your visibility. Starting a conversation in a meeting could be the first step—if you’re comfortable, turning on your camera can help make that connection.
A survey by Korn Ferry found that many feel not using a camera can negatively impact their careers, with 76% believing it affects perceptions of their professionalism.
It’s also key to share your career ambitions with your manager. Be open about your goals and your progress. Just stating your aspirations isn’t enough; it has to be backed up by strong performance and measurable achievements.
These considerations can enhance your career trajectory, but what actions should you take?
Actions to Take for Promotions
According to business expert Jason Morris, avoiding a head-down work culture is critical.
“High achievers often engage in actions that go unnoticed by decision-makers,” he explains.
“They may focus intensely on their tasks, overlooking the strategic elements that lead to promotions.”
If you find yourself waiting for recognition and wondering why others, who might seem less qualified, are advancing, that could be a clue.
It’s a common situation. As Morris points out, “People often believe that hard work and focus on tasks will naturally lead to recognition, but leadership often operates on a different wavelength.”
If you’re taking a head-down approach, watch out for a few behaviors that might hinder your progress. For instance, consistently declining meeting invites that relate to broader collaboration or rarely contributing in group discussions can be detrimental.
The good news? This isn’t an unmanageable challenge. By sharing strategic ideas, increasing your visibility, and nurturing workplace relationships, you can pave a path toward promotion.
