Here are some simple things you can do to get ahead in your company.
- Define Success – If you want to be successful, you need to know what that means in your organization. What does it take to gain promotion from your current position? Can you articulate the requirements? Who decides whether you will be promoted? Who has input into that decision? What information do they consider? Are there things you need to avoid doing to be promoted? Wherever you work, you need these answers. If you do not know what it takes to succeed in your organization, you need to ask and learn this information.
- Ask Questions – If you don’t know how to do something or are unsure if you are doing something right, ask for guidance. While people worry about asking questions for fear that it will show they do not know the answer, it is much better to seek guidance than to blindly move forward and do something wrong.
- Understand Expectations – Obviously, you should work hard. But what does it mean to work hard within your organization? Do you really know what the standards are for hard work? You need to make sure you are doing enough to satisfy and hopefully to exceed expectations.
- Positive Attitude – Your attitude is critical to your success. Do not underestimate the power of being a positive person who works well with all kinds of colleagues at all levels, and one who thinks about the best interest of the organization.
- Participate – Attend training sessions that are offered. Pay attention and learn from them. Also, if your company provides opportunities to attend outside events, go whenever possible, even on evenings or weekends.
- Open Communication – Communicate with your teams and your supervisor. Understand everyone’s roles and help the group work together well. Share information and don’t close yourself in your office like an island. You need to understand how everyone fits into the bigger project or objective.
- Be Proactive – Show your interest in taking on additional responsibilities. Look ahead and see what needs to be done. Volunteer to do it. Your superiors will appreciate it and see that you are ready for additional responsibility.
- Enthusiasm Matters – Be enthusiastic about new opportunities and thank the person that gave it to you. This will encourage the person to continue to give you more opportunities that will help you succeed.