Getting Noticed for a Career Promotion

When much of the workforce is remote, it can feel like more of a challenge to catch the attention of management and show your worth to help gain a promotion. But it’s possible to put the spotlight on your accomplishments and potential for the next level, including highlighting accomplishments in self-reviews and end-of-year performance evaluations. Here are ways to get noticed to boost your promotion chances in the coming year. 

Document your achievements
Before talking about where you’re headed, it helps to know where you’ve been to show to yourself and your manager what you’re capable of accomplishing. Keep detailed records of both what you’ve finished, as well as what you hope to still learn and gain. Make note of where you have exceeded expectations and gone beyond your job title, and ask how you might leverage that in a new role or responsibilities. 

Set specific goals
Write down and visualize exactly what outcome you are seeking, such as gaining a leadership role, increasing your salary or relocating to another part of the country. With a clear end in mind, work backwards and create a route to achieve what you want with a plan to make progress each step of the way.

Connect With Mentors
You may find that more mentorship help is required than one person’s limited experience can offer. Have a conversation with your mentor about opening the door to more input, such as a personal board of directors. Consider how multiple mentors can provide different perspectives, new connections, specific skill sets or expertise in an area that you lack. 

Seek Sponsorship
Sometimes, mentorship is not enough. Sponsorship is a critical factor in helping talented, motivated individuals advance in the business world. Women in particular tend to be over-mentored and under-sponsored. Beyond mentoring, it’s important to find influential individuals who can help others get ahead. 

You’re much more likely to achieve your goals when you write things down. Make sure you don’t just dream it, do it. Setting clear and achievable goals will help you reach your ends –– and get to the next levels.