QUICK TIPS: PROMOTIONS

Learn the standards of performance and the expectations for staff at the next job level/title higher than you are currently working. Most companies expect that you will have performed some of the work that is part of a more advanced position. Your employer wants to see, over time, that you have demonstrated a strong likelihood to not only perform the work, but to succeed and excel at your new job. This is especially true for African Americans. There is normally a higher standard required to get promoted when you are Black.

Tip #1: Find out what work is being done by staff at the next highest level to you or in the position you want to move into.

Tip #2: Find ways to incorporate those skills into your current job. If it’s feasible and if some tasks overlap with your current job, ask for new assignments and more challenging work that will let you build the justification for receiving a promotion.

Tip #3: Try to exceed the expectations for every assignment. Make it difficult for someone to use work and a lack of experience as a reason not to promote you. But, don’t be surprised if your employer stills comes up with “reasonable cause” to stifle your career.

Tip #4: Find yourself a mentor. If your company doesn’t assign mentors, identify someone you enjoy working with and whom you respect. Ask this person for guidance on working towards your promotion. They might even be able to recommend that you move into a new position, which could increase your chances of moving up in the company.