Are you feeling stuck in your career, wondering why you’re not getting promoted despite your hard work and dedication? You’re not alone. Many professionals face this frustrating situation, and the reason may surprise you. According to a recent study, the main reason people don’t get promoted is not due to a lack of skills or experience, but rather a lack of visibility and connection with their colleagues and superiors. Yes, you read that right – visibility and connection. In today’s fast-paced and often remote work environment, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle and fail to build meaningful relationships with your team and leadership. But, as the study shows, this can be a major career roadblock.
So, how can you increase your visibility and connection to get noticed and promoted?
Attend Networking Events
Attend industry conferences, company gatherings, and networking events to connect with colleagues, superiors, and industry leaders. Prepare an elevator pitch that highlights your achievements, skills, and career goals. Bring business cards and engage in meaningful conversations. Follow up with new contacts and maintain relationships through regular check-ins and email updates.
Research the event speakers, sponsors, and attendees beforehand. Prepare thoughtful questions and engage in discussions on industry trends and challenges. Showcase your expertise and provide value to others. After the event, send follow-up emails and connect on LinkedIn to expand your network.
Volunteer for High-Visibility Projects
Identify critical projects that align with your skills, interests, and career goals. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, demonstrate your expertise, and deliver high-quality results. Showcase your achievements and articulate your contributions to stakeholders through regular progress reports and presentations.
Take the initiative to lead projects, mentor team members, and provide guidance and support. Develop a project plan, set goals and objectives, and establish a timeline. Communicate effectively with stakeholders, and adapt to changes and challenges.
Build Relationships with Your Superiors
Schedule regular check-ins with your superiors to discuss goals, progress, challenges, and feedback. Prepare an agenda, take notes, and follow up on action items. Seek guidance, ask for feedback, and demonstrate your value.
Build trust, establish open communication, and stay top of mind. Additionally, develop a mentorship relationship with a senior leader or mentor. Seek guidance on career development, industry trends, and leadership skills. Prepare thoughtful questions, take feedback constructively, and apply it to your work.
Develop a Strong Online Presence
Create a professional online profile, showcasing your skills, experience, achievements, and personal brand. Engage on industry-related forums, share relevant content, and establish thought leadership. Utilize social media platforms to build your personal brand, connect with industry leaders, and share your expertise.
Develop a personal website or blog to showcase your work, skills, and achievements. Write articles, share case studies, and provide value to your audience. Engage with your online community, respond to comments, and build relationships with your audience.
Communicate Effectively
Develop strong written and verbal communication skills to articulate your ideas, goals, and achievements. Prepare clear and concise reports, presentations, and emails. Practice active listening, ask insightful questions, and clarify expectations.
Develop a communication plan that includes regular updates, progress reports, and feedback requests. Prepare for meetings, presentations, and negotiations by researching the audience, preparing key messages, and practicing your delivery.
By using these strategies, you’ll increase your visibility and connection, setting yourself up for career success and that long-awaited promotion. And, if you’re looking for a supportive community of women who understand the challenges of career growth, join us inside the TechMae app!
Our community is dedicated to empowering women to succeed in their careers and personal lives. With resources, mentorship, and support, we’re here to help you achieve your goals. Join us today and connect with a vibrant community of women who are taking control of their careers and lives.
Download the TechMae app now and let’s rise together!