How to . . . Get a promotion

MOST companies are keen to develop and promote those employees who have proved themselves, rather than looking outside the organisation.

Peter Kriel of private higher education provider The Independent Institute of Education, said: “If graduates understand what companies seek from the beginning of their careers, they will be able to position themselves as highpotential candidates, allowing them to be recognised as such and included in either formal or less formal development plans.”

Here are some ways to increase your chances of promotion:

Earn the respect and trust of the people you work with — whether managers, peers or subordinates. “To be trusted and respected is simply linked to ethical behaviour, by delivering what you promise, asking when you don’t know and always respecting those around you,” said Kriel;

Be competent in the technical and functional aspects of your job, but do not oversell yourself. Once you are employed, learn what you need to know and begin applying it as quickly as possible;

Develop a thick skin so that you do not fall apart when given constructive criticism. Most people who give feedback do so because they have more experience and can teach you new skills. If you become too defensive, people will stop trying to help you;

Be creative when faced with challenges. “It is good to follow a ‘what if’ approach, rather than a ‘do this, I know best’ approach,” said Kriel; and

If you are unpredictable and immature, you will find yourself passed over for promotion year after year. “Maintain a position of humility and keep a cool head at all times.” — Margaret Harris