Are you feeling stuck in your current job? Do you want to start making more money? If so, it’s time to take a more proactive approach to your career growth.
But where exactly do you begin?
One of the most efficient ways to move up the corporate ladder is to do it within your current company. And while this may not appeal to most millennials, the strategy can pay off big time if done right.
Start with the blueprint in your mind
Start by determining what your goals are and then map out what it will take to achieve them.
While some goals may seem overwhelming, breaking them down into smaller components will help you set deadlines and motivate you to get things done.
By going through this process, you’ll create a blueprint in your mind that is a vital component of your success – helping you to plan ahead and keep track of your progress.
Work hard and work smart
As the saying goes, “you need to work hard to achieve your goals”. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to work long hours and burn yourself out. You should ultimately seek to work hard, but work smart too.
Take a look at your average work day and identify which tasks take up the most of your time. Use tools and implement systems that will help you streamline your workload and make you more efficient.
If you’re being bogged down in admin, you could also make use of a virtual assistant service that will provide you with support services, allowing you to be more productive.
Don’t just execute, initiate
Do you stick to the script or go beyond what is expected of you?
Your feedback, opinions and ideas are important to your company, so don’t keep them to yourself. Think often about what you can do to improve your work and don’t just act according to what’s been assigned to you.
Going beyond your duties when you can will show your management team that you have initiative and know how to take calculated risks in order to learn and grow.
Play well with others
Have a sincere investment in teamwork.
Supporting your co-workers and mentoring them where necessary can showcase your ability to break down barriers and connect with people.
When you learn to work well with others, your work relationships will become more positive and your influence will become stronger.
Become an expert at something
Your skills and knowledge are some of your most valuable resources. By building skills outside of the scope of your job, you’ll open yourself up to more opportunities and more room for growth.
Upskilling yourself will prepare you for higher positions, ensuring that you’re ready when new positions arise.
Communicate effectively
Being considerate of others is crucial is any work environment. That doesn’t mean that you should skirt around issues or not speak your mind, however.
Growing in a company requires clear communication. This makes it easier for all parties to deliver their work correctly and it limits misinterpretation, making it a skill that should be honed and mastered.
Think and act a level above
Have you ever been advised to “act as if…”? Well, that is precisely the energy that you need to harness when making your way to the top!
When progressing up the corporate ladder, it’s important to envision your next position and “act as if” you’re already filling the role.
Pay attention to how those in positions above you act, manage, mentor and communicate and then emulate that behaviour. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, after all.
Build your network
A power network is a pivotal part of expanding your visibility in your company and increasing your chances of getting a promotion.
Throwing a wide net both inside and outside of your company will keep you up to date with industry trends but also keep you informed on any internal positions that may open up.
The more people you know, the faster you can make your way to the top!
Prove them wrong
Millennials get a lot of flak in the media for being self-centred, lazy and entitled. In reality, however, this group of young people are merely trying to forge a new type of career path that focuses on more than just a paycheck. When you as a millennial have a clear goal in mind and are willing to work towards it, you dispel the myths surrounding you and show the world that just because your priorities are different, your ability to achieve your goals is not.
It’s easy to assume that advancing in your career requires a change of employer. But before you jump ship, evaluate what opportunities are within reach and pay your dues towards seizing them. No career goal is out of reach if you go into the game with a strategy.
