Think you deserve a promotion? Prove it

This post came out from My Paper (22 September 2015)
Title - Think you deserve a promotion? Prove it

Some pointers that I've got are:
1. Stretch your boundaries
2. Do not be too irreplaceable
3. Demonstrate high EQ
4. Speak the company's language
5. Do not be afraid to ask for it

On Stretch your boundaries

• To get promoted, you have to o above and beyond. Taking on additional responsibilities without being asked is not only a great way to demonstrate your work ethic, energy, and skills, but it also lets your boss know that you are ready (and able) to expand your scope. 
• When you take on more than the norm, your boss cannot help but think that you are capable of a bigger role. This includes showing that you are willing to take risks by making innovative suggestions.

On Do not be too irreplaceable

• The key here is not to be seen as the only person capable of performing the necessary duties in the position that you want to move on from.
• If you do, your boss will conclude that promoting you is not worth the trouble (and risk) of finding someone to replace you. The best way to find a balance between doing your best and showing that you are ready for more is by developing other people.
• Make sure that there are others who know how to do important aspects of your job. Plus, teaching is a critical leadership skill. 

On Demonstrate high EQ

• No boss wants to be known as the one who promoted a short fused person. Once you are promoted, your behaviour is a reflection of the judgement of the person who promoted you. 
• Show your boss that you have enough self-awareness to acknowledge your weaknesses and to work to improve them. This will prove you are capable.
• Emotional self control is the result of hard work, not an inherent skill.

On Speak the company's language

• Bosses appreciate vision more than anything. They love it when you see what could be useful to the company over the long term and tell them about it in a language they understand. 
• It is no longer enough to simply be an expert at what you do; you have to demonstrate that you understand how the work you do serves the business. 
• Speaking the right language will not only show that you are interested in more than your current role, but will also demonstrate your intelligence and fit within the company.

On Do not be afraid to speak for it

• Not everyone wants to be promoted; some people are perfectly happy doing the same job for years on end. If you do not tell your boss otherwise, he may assume that you are one of them. 
• It is important that you have something specific in mind - if not a specific job title, then at least a clear idea of what the responsibilities might include and how this ties in with your career goals. 
• If the job requires skills you do not have yet, outline your plan for acquiring them. 

Yours,
Something Small Thinking Big