If you're aiming for a promotion, you're likely focused on big wins such as cutting costs, making an impact, and getting noticed by key people.
While those moves matter, consistent daily habits are just as important. Focus on small, strategic actions that build your reputation and position you for the next step in your career.
Familiarise yourself with these practices, and fingers crossed you'll get that promotion in no time!
Be a Model Employee
Always arrive on time, better still, early if possible, even in laid-back work cultures. If you're leading a meeting, come with an agenda, keep things on track, and end with a brief recap and clear next steps. It shows you're organised, respectful of others' time, and a leader by example.
Be a Problem Solver, Not Just a Spotter
To stand out as a future leader, focus on solving problems, not just pointing them out. Showing initiative and sound judgment sets you apart and helps build your leadership skills. When bringing up an issue, always suggest a solution. Leaders are busy; offering fixes, not just problems, makes you a true asset.
Respect Your Boss' Time
Before asking for help, assess the urgency and try to solve the issue or draft a plan. This shows initiative. For non-urgent matters, keep a running list and request a meeting when needed, and include a brief agenda so you both come prepared.
Maintain Confidentiality
Earn trust by keeping information about confidential or sensitive subjects to yourself. Beyond that, don’t gossip or backstab at the water cooler. By being a stand-up employee, you'll earn trust and respect.
Don't Just Go Through the Motions
Being present is surprisingly enjoyable, regardless of where you are or what you're doing. Enjoyment is our natural state when we let go of judgment and resistance. The moment we stop criticising or wishing things were different, we can actually feel at ease right where we are.
Continually Produce
You will see the impact you are making by simply doing more in real time. When we commit to producing more (of the right things), we can’t help but get out of our heads and enjoy the process more. When we set higher targets and multiply our actions in attaining them, we may take on more work, but our likelihood of succeeding is greatly increased.
Listen Empathetically and Connect
Active listening with empathy is an unusual but important skill that can have a huge impact on your development. It’s about actually knowing and connecting with people, not just hearing what they say.
Be Visible
Hard work is essential, but it won't lead to promotion if no one sees you. Balance focused work with showing up by joining group activities, attend optional meetings, and be present where people gather. Small actions, like eating lunch in shared spaces or casually connecting with coworkers, keep you top of mind when opportunities arise.
