Welcome to “Pressing Questions” Fast Company‘s mini advice column. Twice a week, Deputy Editor Kathleen Davis, host of The New Way We Work podcast, will answer the biggest and most pressing workplace questions in less than one minute.
Q: How do I get a promotion?
A: There are a lot of variables, like timing and budget, that don’t have much to do with how good you are at your job. Still, here’s the best way to set yourself up for success:1. Make sure you’re working above your job description. This might seem both obvious and unfair: In order to get promoted it’s not enough to just do a good job at the basic requirements, you also have to prove that you are already doing work that’s A+ level (which helps you make the case for a higher title and responsibilities).2. Work smart, not just hard. I’m sorry to say that work isn’t always a meritocracy—as you may have noticed. It’s not enough to keep your head down and do good work and hope you’ll get noticed; you need to make sure you are attached to visible success. If the idea of tooting your own horn makes your skin crawl, you can do this in less ostentatious ways, like giving your boss regular progress reports. 3. Make a clear and compelling case. Yes, you want a promotion because you want more money and a better title and it’s good for your career—those reasons are implied. Don’t say them. Instead frame it as how the title change already reflects the work you are doing (see: point 1) and how you will further help the company in this new role. Frame it as a win-win for everyone. And whatever you do, don’t use it as a bargaining chip; if you say you’ll leave if you don’t get a promotion, at best it will sour your relationship with your manager, and at worst they will call your bluff.
4. Get the timing right. When are promotions typically given? How is your company doing financially? There are always exceptions and you don’t want to wait forever, but asking at the right time increases your chances of getting a “yes.”
Need some more advice? Read on:
