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What lessons did you learn in your field that helped you get promoted? ?

This question is part of our professions series where pros share questions they wish they saw students asking

career professional-development soft-skills
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Jerome’s Answer

Understanding that how you treat people matters. I’ve always tried to be kind, but sometimes people who work alongside you will get promoted and be in a position to either support you or hold you back.

To that end, connections matter. My move from a Manager to a Director and from a Director to a VP were a result of people I knew and their recommendations.
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Karl’s Answer

This is a good question and I will start by looking at your current role and going above and beyond in that role. As you succeed in that role look at how you did it and think about how it may help the broader team and organization. Also think about the skill sets that enable you to do it or that you sharpened in the process. Those skill sets will useful in the next role. Be a continual learner and build a network around you by engaging with different individuals.
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Cindy’s Answer

I would say that first of all, be the best version of yourself. Go the extra mile.
Be nice and kind to others. Help out when possible.
Be involved in activities beyond your call of duty.
Make sure that the relevant people KNOW you want to be promoted. If you keep it to yourself, it may not happen.
Make a plan with your manager what the necessary steps are for you to take to accomplish you goal. If you cant discuss it with your manager, try preparing a plan with a friend and then take the steps that will move you forward.
Good luck!
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Brenna’s Answer

In addition to all of the excellent responses and advice already provided, I suggest connecting with people at the next level or a couple of levels up to learn more about the most important aspects of their jobs and find out how you can get experience in those areas before you get promoted. You may be surprised by some of the answers and that information will give you an opportunity to spend time developing skills in what really matters. Learn all you can about what that new role is so that you can set yourself up for success when you get promoted. It's important to make sure that once you are promoted, you know what you need to do and how to do it.

Build a network of people you trust who can advocate for you and give you opportunities to shine. Volunteer for new projects, offer to cover for people while they are on vacation, connect with people to learn more about their challenges and needs and see if you can help them. Ask someone to mentor you who is an expert in a skill you're trying to improve.

Educate your manager and other people in more senior levels about the work you do and the impact and value of that work. Share your passion with them! I think it's important to make sure your manager knows that you're working towards a promotion and you want their support and guidance to achieve that, but don't pressure them into promoting you or constantly ask when you're going to be promoted. Focus on improving your skills, building connections, and doing really good work.
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