6 ways to get that new job or promotion
6 ways to get that new job or promotion
September 23, 2015By First For Women
If you’re a career woman, you’re always looking onwards and upwards. You work hard to advance your career, and if there is no chance for growth in your company, you’ll likely look for a new job somewhere else. But sometimes you can get looked over for a job or promotion even though you know you’re the best person for it.
Your skills alone may not be enough because there are loads of things that contribute to how people perceive you and, ultimately how likely you are to get a job or promotion. If you don’t want to be skipped over the next time a promotion comes around or your dream job opens up, read our 6 tips to get the position that you know you deserve:
1. Keep abreast of industry changes
There are few industries that are not directly affected by technology and developments at least once every few years. Whether new technology is introduced or laws change, it’s highly unlikely your job will stay the same forever. By keeping up with these changes, you’re showing your boss or future employers that you know what’s going on in your industry, which earns you more credibility.
2. Set goals and make them clear
If you’re driven to excel in your career, define exactly what you’re after and on what timeline. If you want to be in top management, do you know how you’re going to get there? What positions must you hold to reach that point? How old do you want to be when you reach this position? Setting goals can make reaching them much easier because you know exactly what you’re working towards. And remember to tell your boss or your future employer what your intentions are. If you don’t, you may be passed over simply because no one knows what you want.
3. Research/homework
Doing your homework on what the new job entails will go a long way towards attaining it. If you feel that you’re not quite qualified for the position, you have one of two options – you can abandon the idea of going for it, or you can work to gain the skills you need. But no matter what, never deceive your employer or interviewer about what you are capable of.
4. Go the extra mile
Doing more than only what is in your job description will grab the attention of the powers that be. For example, if you’re a personal assistant and you hear your boss talking about how she needs new, business insurance, taking the initiative to get her quotes will not only impress her, but make her life easier.
5. Ask for it!
“The difference between your dreams and reality is called action.” – Unknown If you wait for a promotion, you may never get one. Likewise, the only way to get a new job is to apply for one. If you know someone who may be able to get you a foot in the door for a position, ask. The worst that can happen is they’ll say, “No.”
6. Believe in yourself
This is not a cheesy piece of advice. If you want others to think that you are capable of doing the new job well, you need to believe it yourself! If you doubt your own abilities, you’ll never convince others of them. Simply knowing that you’re good at what you do puts you squarely in line for that new job or promotion. 1st for Women Insurance understands the unique needs of career women, stay-at-home mums, and business owners, which is why we offer tailor-made vehicle, household, personal, and business insurance for all South African women.
