There are many factors that a company’s leadership team takes into consideration when deciding candidates for the next level in the company. These factors can include the basics like performance, attendance, manageability and, most importantly, attitude. We will explore some dos when it comes to working your way up the corporate ladder.
Your strengths and skills are your biggest assets. Unfortunately, it is very easy to get caught up in the daily task of your current role. Each day is like the last and before long, many simply become hamsters in a wheel. It takes a leadership mindset to either break out of this cycle or simply avoid it altogether.
One way to stand out from the crowd is to become a detective in your organization.
There are the problems that every manager is working on and then there are unknown problems or issues. By listening to colleagues, managers and others in your organization, figure out the hidden issues, challenges, and frustrations your direct manager many be experiencing. Once you have done so, create a plan and/or lead a training (WITHOUT being asked) on a solution. Taking initiative is a skill that is highly sought after and hard to teach. Own your manager’s problems as your own and watch how much more visible you become in the organization.
Problem solving leads to another great way to boost your upward mobility.
Supporting your colleagues and managers is a great leadership trait. Managers support their teams, therefore their team should support them. However, this is not always the case. This does not imply that one should become a “teacher’s pet”. It means that you support your manager in their goals and help the company achieve its mission.
While you are helping to support the people you work with, find yourself a mentor.
A great strategy to excel in your current role (as well as prepare for the next) is to surround yourself with those who are in the position you are working towards. Mentors are great resources of information, best practices, and advice. They help you stay accountable to your goals and encourage you to consistently move out of your comfort zone.
In addition to working with a mentor, take every opportunity available for professional development.
Attend conferences, networking events, seminars, and webinars. For extra credit, offer to share the knowledge with your manager and team in a short meeting (again, DON’T wait to be asked). Sharing information is the biggest difference between a boss and a leader. If you have your sights on moving within the company, leaders are always in high demand.
