Essential Skills to Get Promoted
By Shari Steinbach, MS RDN, RDBA Contributing Editor
Working in the retail environment requires a variety of skills and long hours by everyone, so to move up the corporate ladder, you need to make an impression that sets you apart as a candidate for advancement. Leadership must see that you are ready and deserving of a promotion and this means actively showing, and possibly telling your boss that you’re ready for a new role. Here are some skills that will help you shine as you prepare to move to the next level:
- Know your strengths and weaknesses. If you know your strong points you can make sure to show off these strengths when appropriate. By understanding your flaws, you can work on improving those skills that can boost your chances for a promotion.
- Be collaborative. Collaboration means working constructively with a team of people to explore ideas and find a solution that extends beyond your own limited vision. Being a good team player in this respect shows that you are committed to helping the greater good of all individuals as well as the company, and you will have a better chance of being noticed when promotions are being decided.
- Take charge and show initiative. Displaying passion, decisiveness and confidence are all leadership skills that are essential to get promoted. Show your boss that you are committed to leading new projects and developing or improving your skills to show you are serious about your career and future growth with the company.
- Stay engaged. Take a proactive approach to networking within your organization and the retail industry and get to know the informal leaders who can help advocate for you when promotional opportunities arise. Seek out ways to share your expertise and show your leadership qualities by working with other departments.
- Be reliable and positive. Individuals who typically get promoted consistently meet deadlines and can be counted to stay calm and positive during periods of stress. They are also self-motivated and upbeat about finding relevant solutions to business and consumer issues.
- Thrive during change. When change occurs at work, and it will, try to get involved and make your voice heard as you navigate the shifts. Stay motivated and think about what possible new opportunities may emerge.
- Demonstrate ROI. Making, or saving money for the company is sure to get you noticed. Keep a portfolio of all the innovative work you do that enhances the corporation’s bottom line and drives customer loyalty. Tracking your work validates your success and investment in the company.
- Talk about your desire for a promotion. Expressing your desire for a promotion can be very helpful. Management may not have thought about you as a candidate or know about your interest in a new role, especially if it is outside of your department. By talking about your aspirations, you may get the direction you need to move up.
Successfully managing your career path and getting a promotion is a task that takes time, learning, and dedication. Practice these skills and you may just get that promotion you’ve been longing for.
