How to Get Promoted

So, if you have decided to do something about obtaining that promotion, here is a step-by-step guide that can be of immense help:

1. Identify what areas are “hot” and trending
   Keep your eyes and ears open to see what areas are trending and hold promise for better career growth. Look for roles and responsibilities that interest you, your company focuses on, and where you think you could be a good fit.
2. Identify where you are lacking and what you need
   Now that you know what you are aiming for, the next step would be to find out what knowledge and skills you would require to advance into that new role or get promoted.
3. Speak with your manager or seniors
   It is always a good idea to speak with your manager and check if you are on the right track. You can also consult one or two seniors in your company whom you admire for their input and advice. They may be able to point out any flaws in your plan or make meaningful contributions to it. And while you are at it, see if there are opportunities for your company to pay for some of your education.
4. Get additional qualifications
   Now that you have a solid plan to get promoted, enroll in a bachelor, master, or doctoral program that aligns with your interests and objectives. Alternatively, gun for those professional certifications if they fit into your plan. 
5. Network and build relationships
   No matter how much you are qualified and skilled, networking plays a large and critical role in advancing one’s career. While at school and in your company, build camaraderie and associations with people who matter and who could help you in your endeavor to get promoted. Forging solid relationships in your school, at work, and outside your company can potentially lead to better opportunities soon.

When one finds oneself unable to advance in one’s career, the fundamental problem could be one’s limited educational qualification. Here are some reasons why going back to school or getting additional qualifications may be necessary:

1. Your skills are outdated
   Examine your current skill set: is it up to date, or might it use some work? New technological tools are released every day, but you have no idea how to use them. Your coworkers are increasing their productivity by implementing new ideas and approaches, but you are still doing things the old way. 
2. Your job is becoming redundant
   Your company may recruit fewer people who do what you do, or your duties may be automated or phased out entirely.
3. You are behind the times
   Everyone in your field is raving about a new trend, but you have not heard of it and cannot understand it even after researching.
4. You want a more prominent role and more responsibility, but you are unable to get it
   For years, you have been hoping and trying for a promotion. You consistently go above and beyond and accept more responsibilities to show your boss you can handle them. However, whenever a new position opens, your manager tells you that “you are not yet ready” or “it’s not yet your time.”
5. Your industry no longer satisfies you 
   You are eager to grow because your job is not as attractive as it once was. Perhaps you have outgrown your industry, and for several reasons, the industry does not need you anymore. Do you need to change your field? Would you feel more fulfilled if you moved up the corporate ladder, or would you feel the same lack of passion even if you did?