Common Blunders in Job Interviews, Along with Expert Advice on Overcoming Them
Promoting Your Career: Timing is Everything
Making a promotion request can be a significant step in one's career, but timing plays a crucial role in the success of such a request. According to Executive Coach Andrea Wasserman, who has extensive experience in hiring, promoting, and evaluating employees at companies like Nordstrom, Verizon, and Yahoo, the right timing can make all the difference.
Wasserman emphasises that promotions and salary increases are not rewards for individual performance, but rather business decisions. This means that demonstrating growth and improvement can make a promotion request more compelling. Taking feedback on board, applying it, and showing growth are key elements in this process.
However, there are common timing mistakes to avoid. For instance, bringing up the topic of promotion during the first meeting with a new manager might not be the best approach. Similarly, asking for a promotion too soon after a recent one, or when the company is undergoing structural changes or is under pressure, may not be well-received.
Building credibility and aligning with business needs can significantly improve the chances of professional advancement. This involves showing that you understand the company's context and are aware of its needs. However, if a crucial project fails or there is feedback on leading meetings, it's wise to wait a few weeks before asking for a promotion to avoid appearing lacking in accountability and self-awareness.
In uncertain times, showing patience and leading with stability can increase chances of a promotion. Career growth should be a regular topic of conversation with supervisors or the Human Resources department. It's important to start discussing career goals after being in a role for six to twelve months. A smart time to ask for a promotion is when clear results have been demonstrated and credibility has been established.
It's worth noting that some talented and hardworking employees have been denied promotions due to poor timing. In some cases, a lack of awareness about the overarching context of the company has been a factor in these denials.
In conclusion, timing is a crucial factor in promotion decisions. By understanding the right moments to ask for a promotion, demonstrating growth, and aligning with business needs, employees can increase their chances of professional advancement.
