Working hard, getting recognized, promotions, changing jobs, changing companies….so many routes a career can take that can make your journey remarkable. We all hear the workplace is changing, demands are greater, speed is a key factor, globalization and new jobs being added that have never existed before. It is similar to a tsunami, you often know it is coming, but afterwards things are forever changed.
I think the workplace and our personal views on work are changing how we define our success. In the past, and still today, promotion is one avenue people want to know how to traverse. “How do I get promoted?” is a question I get asked a lot. Just like any journey there are many paths to get there and many street signs to navigate. Thinking about how will this promotion add to my “remarkable” plan is one place I encourage people to examine.
Promotions
Promotions are a point in time; often a goal that once reached leaves you looking for the next promotion. It is sort of like salary which we know is a demotivator when we do not feel it is justified, not a motivator. The motivation frame from a promotion is often quite short. Promotions also depend on so much more than performance in most organizations – is there a need for the role, who else may be qualified, is there budget for the role, should this role be combined with another. So many things in which you may not have control over.
I am not saying promotions are not worth it, I like promotions too. I offer that there is a way to set yourself up for promotion as a “short -term” goal, while also focusing on how it will be part of your remarkable career.
Board of Directors
So lets start with some ways to do both. Long ago I read an article about having your own Board of Directors. This Board would be comprised of multiple individuals with differing skills and perspectives who could provide insight and guidance as you go on your journey. At the same time there are relationships and experiences that we know help to build skills and prepare you for the road ahead. What would happen if you combine the two – having a Board and ensuring you are leveraging those relationships to gain the experience needed for your next step.
Below is a quick exercise that I adapted from materials I received through my training as a leadership coach. It is my version of a Career Development Wheel. For each of the 8 categories you can also place names of people or organizations that will form your Board. Take a few moments, read the directions, and complete the exercise.
Career Development Wheel
Reflection Questions
- Does your wheel look like a wheel, or does it so some jagged edges or maybe even some “flat tires” you may need to smooth and/or repair? What does your “wheel” say to you”?
- What steps can you take today to even out those jagged edges? Do you need a speciality mechanic or just general service?
- When you envision your career 10 years from now, or 2 years from now, what needs to be different to make it be remarkable? Do you have the right vehicles?
- Do you have anyone specified who is helping you with a particular step? Do they bring a diverse set of experiences and skills? Have you gotten a second opinion?
- Are you in “Park”, “Overdrive”, “Reverse” (which may not be a bad thing)? Do you even have an idea of the journey you want to take?
Summary
All of us want to grow and develop…and getting promoted is awesome! The key is to take control of the wheel, ensure you are focusing on what will help you succeed, build a Board to help you get there, and challenge yourself to explore new skills, deepen existing ones, offer yourself up for new opportunities. All of these sets, driven by a goal of having a remarkable outcome, will pay off!
Happy wheeling around!