Asking for a promotion can be challenging. However, with some time and effort in preparing, we are sure you are ready to have this important conversation. So, today, let’s discuss some tips to consider when asking for a promotion.
Two questions to ask yourself before requesting a promotion:
What does a promotion mean to you?
A promotion can mean different things to different people. So, when you are ready to ask for a promotion, it’s important to understand what it means to you. Do you want a higher salary? Do you want to change departments? Do you want a different job title?
Know what this exactly means for you and be prepared to discuss in detail your expectations when you are ready to meet with your manager or boss. Don’t leave any guess work, or grey areas, as this might mean you won’t get what you want or deserve.
Do you deserve a promotion?
Once you have clarified what a promotion looks like to you, it is important to consider what you have achieved to deserve a promotion. What have you done in your current role, and how has that benefited or added value to the organization? You want to be specific and offer clear examples and statistics (if applicable) to show exactly the successes you have had and how you have overcome challenges along the way.
It is also important to consider whether you are being paid what you are worth. For example, have you asked for a pay increase in the last year or two? If you answered no, you are likely not being paid accordingly for your expertise and knowledge. Therefore, do your research! Understand industry averages, and what competitors are paying for similar roles, so that you can use your findings to further support your conversation regarding a promotion.
Tips when asking for a promotion
Once you have clearly defined what a promotion looks like to you and have itemized your examples of why you deserve one, the time has come to ask for a meeting. Here are a few things to consider when asking for a promotion.
Timing is key
While there isn’t a perfect time for anything, there are certain times you might want to avoid when asking for a promotion. For example, has your organization recently downsized, or have they undergone restructuring? If so, you may want to wait before approaching the subject.
In terms of timing, it’s best to look for ideal opportunities. Perhaps you have reached a goal or target that is beneficial to the business, maybe you have had success on a recent project with a team you’ve led, or perhaps someone has left the organization or retired, opening an opportunity for you to move into. These are all great opportunities to take advantage of.
Reach out to your network
The words and endorsements from your colleagues go a long way. Reach out to your team members and other employees within the organization to ask for feedback. This is a great time to build off the relationships you have cultivated during your time in the organization and ask them to offer their own anecdotes of what working with you is like, support you have offered, or how you have helped achieve successes for those you work with.
Show initiative
Use the time before asking for a promotion to show your manager or boss that you are ready and willing to step up to the plate. Showing an increased initiative, going above and beyond, and showcasing yourself as someone who is confident in their abilities will help you in achieving that promotion.
Value the well-being of the team by preparing others to rise to the occasion should you be promoted.
Ask for the promotion
Now that you have prepared as best as possible, it is time for the ask. Be confident in your expertise, skills, and abilities when you ask for the promotion. Know your value, and market yourself as an asset to the company. This will likely be a series of conversations but leave everything on the table in your initial meeting so that they have all the necessary information at the ready for consideration.
We understand that asking for a promotion can be daunting. If you have questions, or would like to discuss further, we would love to assist you. Contact our team today!