10 Skills That Can Help You Get Promoted

Nancy Anderson
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Earn a promotion in 2018 thanks to a robust economy, a competitive labor market, and a few tips from bosses who are in the know. Discover 10 skills you need to move up the professional ladder sooner rather than later.

1. Take Ownership

When you have the skills to succeed, take ownership of your position to make the company better. This means do whatever it takes to get a task done whether you need to make a customer happy or come through for a high-value client. Your manager notices your attitude as you earn a promotion.

2. Play With the Team

Reach out to others on your team or in other departments to see if they require assistance. Collaboration with teammates stands out because a company is successful when the team works well together. Shoulder more responsibilities if you feel you are ready, and see where that takes you.

3. Earn Trust

Your boss should be able to rely on you to arrive at work on time or early every day and get things done on time. Be punctual, act friendly, and take the initiative to move higher in the organization. When your team trusts you, you can become a leader.

4. Show Your Work Ethic

Work ethic refers to the amount of effort an employee puts into a task on a daily basis. This skill isn't about getting results or meeting deadlines. It's about how you carry yourself with integrity during the ordinary grind.

5. Self-Start

Show your autonomy by taking the reins on a project once your boss gives you a task to complete. Self-starters work independently and understand their role within the company as they earn a promotion.

6. Display Honesty

Always be honest with your supervisor. This means asking questions when you don't know the answer and seeking help when you're over your head.

7. Learn From Mistakes

Learning from your mistakes is as important as achieving goals. Did your error lose a valuable client or customer? Take ownership of it, learn what happened, and move past it for next time.

8. Think Outside the Box

Creativity when solving a problem goes a long way to earning a promotion. Your manager notices when you come up with a solution that no one else did to get past a difficult problem.

9. Work Hard

If you work hard and display the skills necessary, your supervisor takes note about your initiative, drive and determination. You might have an opportunity for professional development, college classes or expanding your skills to prove you're ready for a promotion.

10. Communicate Openly

Don't be afraid to ask your boss what it takes to earn a promotion. Your manager should outline what you can do to move ahead in both qualitative and quantitative terms. Reopen the conversation when you feel you've met those goals.

These 10 skills can help you move forward professionally to earn a promotion. In a competitive environment, a higher-level position is there for the taking if you're willing to put in the effort.


Photo courtesy of sheelamohan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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