Careers don’t happen, they are made. How you position yourself puts the spotlight on your value. That spotlight demonstrates how much you are contributing. Why you deserve raises and promotions.
3 Things to do to improve strategic positioning
People all have talents they need. There is a reason people feel “stuck or dead ended.”
They have not shown the world their value.
Time to step back and do a self assessment…in a few minutes.
Be sure you report to a respected decision maker.
A respected decision maker can make sure your contributions are recognized. By the decision maker and people decision maker reports to. Make others aware of you.
You don’t report to a respected decision maker? Who does your boss report to? Make sure that person knows you exist.Showcase your accomplishments. Your talents.
Periodically send your boss a quick note on what you have done. It can be as simple as couple paragraphs.
Example
Date,Boss name,
-Finished my part of ____________ (name of project) today. Wantedyou to know the results.
-We finished 3 days ahead of schedule.
-Results exceeded standards by 7%. (Tested 3 times to make sure.)
Thanks for opportunity. This was rewarding and fun. Hope there are more.
Sincerely,
Your first and last name
Title
CC: (name of boss’ boss.)
Above shows your contribution. Used quantifiable numbers. Credited your boss for opportunity. Is short and sweet. And note made your boss look good to his boss. Note builds credibility for you and your boss. You look good but so does boss.
Be aware.
Work, of course. But always be aware of activity around you.
What others in adjacent departments are working on. Who are employees that look good, seem to have it together. Which Departments make the biggest impact. Start to ask what skills you would need to join that Department.
Ask your boss on directions you can advance. Ask other employees what they think you are good at. Where you can improve.
Watch employees you admire. What are they doing differently? Incorporate those traits into your management style.
People move forward or backward. Addressing above 3 points assure you move forward…and up.
Climbing career ladder can be smooth, invigorating, and very rewarding. Success? That’s up to you. How you apply yourself. How aware you are.
Call to Action
Report to respected Decision Maker. Not happening? Make sure your accomplishments are seen by right people.
Showcase your accomplishments. Your talents. Quantify them.
Be aware. Who are people you admire. Incorporate what makes them successful into your management style.
Tom Ferree is the founder of Ferree & Associates and SecureEmploy, organizations focused on helping companies find exceptional talent and helping professionals advance their careers. Since founding Ferree & Associates in 1977, Tom has worked extensively with hospitality companies, executives, and rising leaders across the industry. Through SecureEmploy, he shares practical career strategies, leadership insights, and real-world advice to help professionals grow their careers and help organizations build stronger teams.
