Any job can be a stepping stone to another job, but before you can nab that promotion, you need to prove you’re capable and deserving. You need to perform above expectations and get your boss to take notice. How can you accomplish these goals? Here are a few strategies to help you get there.
Go the extra mile
Any job entails performing certain tasks and trying to follow directives. In some cases, this could involve specific processes or step-by-step instructions. That said, if you go out of your way to do more, you’re going to gain attention for your efforts.
If your boss asks you to complete a task, don’t just do the bare minimum. Make sure you understand what’s needed and deliver before the deadline. Demonstrate how you could add further value by offering to help further or sharing or providing additional information that helps your boss achieve their goals with the task.
Don’t over-promise
Over-promising and under-delivering is the surest way to annoy your boss, especially if it makes him or her look bad in the process. If you commit to doing something, do it. Furthermore you should do it enthusiastically and you should do it to the best of your ability. Managing and exceeding expectations is one of the most effective ways to show you are reliable and productive.
Learn from your coworkers
It’s easy to settle into your wheelhouse, but this isn’t likely to help you stand out. Identify who the top performers are in your team and play close attention to what they do and how they do it. We all bring a variety of skill sets to a team, so take time to consider where your strengths lie and what areas you may want to focus on for improvement.
Get creative
You’ve probably heard the phrase “no risk, no reward”. It’s always easier to go along with the pack, but you’re never going to shine if you simply agree with the ideas of your betters. If you have a great idea, share it. It might not gain traction, but you’ll earn a reputation for being a creative thinker, and you may identify an innovative solution that wows your boss and pays off for the company.
Think like an entrepreneur
What would you do differently if you were running your own company? As an average employee, you might be inclined to follow policies and procedures, even if they’re outdated, inadequate, or wasteful, simply because you assume someone with greater knowledge and experience created them.
If you were running your own company, however, you’d want to streamline and curb waste whenever possible. When you approach your job this way and make reasonable and relevant suggestions about needed changes to your boss, you can demonstrate your value and get noticed.
Post by Octavia Goredema @OctaviaGoredema
