Everyone wants to get ahead, but not everyone succeeds. What differentiates one business person from the next? If you want to take your career to the next level and show your managers and bosses that you’re ready for bigger and better roles, here are a few ways you can prove you’re worth.
1. Develop Incredible Leadership Skills
Inspiration is a driving force for many individuals. When they can latch onto an idea or concept and follow a strong, assured person who motivates them to be the best they can be, their productivity soars and the entire organization benefits. A good leader is one who can inspire others to achieve their potential and build a trusting relationship with the team.
Regardless of your role in your company, you can start taking on leadership qualities right now. You can be the point-person for coworkers in need. You can assist and guide others into their own personal success. You can be attentive, trustworthy, honest, and professional. It doesn’t take much to prove you’re a leader, but you do have to put in the work and make your skills visible to your team.
2. Keep Up on Industry Standards
No matter your industry, it is crucial that you stay up-to-date on best practices and current trends. If available, get a certification in your field and take continuing education classes to prove your dedication to knowledge. Attend webinars and read the latest publications authored by industry experts. Frequently review blogs and other online resources for updates and events. Be the informed person that everyone goes to for industry information.
3. Learn Effective Management Skills
Leadership and management are not the same tasks. Managers are in charge of keeping the team organized, monitoring workflow, and facilitating support. They also serve as liaisons between the team and upper management. As one NEC article states, effective managers are disciplined and can delegate work to the right people. They admit their mistakes, take proper action to mitigate issues quickly, and are accountable for their actions and the team.
If you really want to get ahead in your company and impress the executives, you need to develop keen management skills on top of leadership skills. If you can do both and make your advancements visible to company stakeholders, you just might earn a spot at the round table one day.
4. Make Decisions and Influence Policy
People who make decisions get noticed. To truly excel in your role and move upward along your career path, be the type of person who can make informed decisions that benefit both individuals and the whole. This skill is certainly challenging to master, which is why advanced education is usually needed. A degree in public policy can help you learn the ins and outs of policy creation, communication among different parties, and policy implementation. NEC explains that policy-minded employees are highly sought after among large sectors such as health care, environment organizations, and public affairs groups.
Don’t Give Up
Persistence does pay off. If you’re serious about advancing in your career, don’t give up on your goals. Develop a strategic plan, find mentors to help you succeed, and work your plan until completion. With a solid strategy and a stout heart, you’ll find yourself in the job you deserve.