"I have three precious things which I hold fast and prize. The first is gentleness; the second is frugality; the third is humility, which keeps me from putting myself before others. Be gentle and you can be bold; be frugal and you can be liberal; avoid putting yourself before others and you can become a leader among men." - Lao-Tzu
People are stuck in dead-end jobs, resentful that they are passed over for promotion. They know they are capable of more, but something is holding them back.
You want to succeed. What should you do?
The first thing to understand is that nothing will change if you do nothing differently. For anything to be possible, you must act.
Secondly, you must start by looking at yourself rather than blaming your position on others. Be honest with yourself. Close your eyes and see yourself at work as others see you.
Over the next few days at work, listen to yourself and consider how you act.
Do you behave like promotion material?
Sit down quietly and write your reference based on how you perform now.
Include a comment on your work habits, time keeping, reliability, ability to get the job done, diligence, accuracy, and how you manage under pressure.
Think about your ability to work as part of a team, how you get on with colleagues and customers or clients, and your communication skills.
Are you a problem finder or a solution provider? Do you moan about things or deal with them constructively and helpfully? Do you do just enough to get by or take pride in a job well done? Are you enthusiastic, loyal, and committed?
What skills have you to offer?
The third step is to think about the job you would like to do. What sort of person does it need? Consider the personal skills and characteristics you would look for if you were on the appointment panel. Make a list under the following headings:
Unique Characteristics, skills, knowledge, and experience.
Compare your reference with the job specification you have created. Think carefully; would you honestly recommend yourself without reservation for promotion?
Are there any areas you need to improve or develop? Have you got enough experience? Where are the gaps? What do you need to do to ensure you have what it takes?
Fourthly, find your goals and when you want to achieve them. Make your goals realistic but challenging. Work out a daily program to achieve your goals. Talk about them to others, make them real and make them happen. Remember to celebrate your achievements. If things go wrong, remember that it happens to successful people too. They do not give up but use each failure as an opportunity to gain experience and develop.
Make sure you model promotion-worthy behaviors. It may help you if you think about those people you know who are good role models or what makes the ideal boss? Think about what makes them suitable. Could you make a list of their attributes?
For in-house promotion or a job elsewhere, you will need a reference, so the opinion of those you currently work for will count.
The fifth step is to make an appointment to see your boss. Make it at a time convenient to them when they can concentrate on your schedule. Prepare what you want to say.
Air is keen to develop my career. What do you think I need to do to be ready for promotion?
Listen to the feedback with an open mind. Ask for support and training in the areas where development is needed. Please show them your action plan and involve them in the process.
Be honest in your dealings with yourself and others. Know your strengths and face your weaknesses. Believe in yourself, and others will believe in you. Take charge of your destiny, and the possibilities are endless.