Is it time you pushed for that next promotion?
Maybe you’re bored. Or sick of watching others pass you. Or finally realised you’re worth more!
Careers aren’t straightforward, in fact life’s career journey resembles a rollercoaster, complete with unexpected twists and turns. Some factors, like economic trends and global events, may be out of our control, but guess what? You’ve got the power to steer this ship and make waves in your career!
So, here’s the deal: At some point in your professional life, you’ll come to a crossroads. It’s that moment when you have to decide whether to look elsewhere for new opportunities or set your sights higher within your current company. It’s about realizing your full potential and taking the leap. But how do you know if you’re truly ready to take that step up the career ladder? What signs should you be on the lookout for? Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to getting promotion ready!
1. Don’t Let Your Salary Undermine Your Worth
Let’s start with a dose of reality. Your current salary may not accurately reflect your true value and what you bring to the table. In fact, what you deserve to earn should be a reflection of your potential, not just your current responsibilities. Of course, I’m willing to bet that you’re worth a whole lot more than your current wage suggests!
To make your move towards a promotion, you need to start valuing yourself at a higher level. I’ve witnessed countless women land massive pay raises by daring to apply for jobs they initially thought were beyond their reach. You can do it too! Here’s a nifty trick: have a trusted partner or friend read your job descriptions without revealing the salary. It can be eye-opening and reveal that you’ve been working at a higher level than your pay suggests.
It all comes down to belief, vision, and confidence. Once you have those in place, you’re ready to make that bold move and claim what you truly deserve.
2. You Can Do Your Current Job Blindfolded
Think about your last month at work. Did you face any significant challenges that pushed you out of your comfort zone, leaving you scratching your head initially? No? Well, that might be a telling sign that you’re more than ready for the next level of your career journey.
When you find yourself working with ease, handling pressure effortlessly, feeling confident in your role, and taking pride in what you do, it’s time to look upwards. While mastering your current position is commendable, it would be a shame to remain stagnant just because you’re comfortable. Don’t let the allure of an easy life hold you back, or worse, let fear keep you in your safety zone.
3. Professional Development Is Limited
Sometimes, the path to career progression within your current organization might appear narrow or even non-existent. If you’re feeling stuck, it’s time to consider your options. The truth is, opportunities may be lurking right under your nose, but you haven’t spotted them yet. Take a bold step and approach your manager with questions like, “What do I need to do to be considered for a director role?” You’ll be surprised at how revealing the response can be.
Here’s the bottom line: If there’s no room for you to learn new skills or diversify your expertise within your current organization, it might be time to explore opportunities elsewhere. After all, if you can’t spread your wings, you’ll never truly soar.
4. Your Personal Circumstances and Priorities Have Changed
Life is full of twists and turns, and your career should adapt accordingly. Maybe you were content with earning a “decent” wage, but now, as your family grows, your desire to provide for them has outgrown that “decent” wage. Financial independence is essential for women, whether you’re single and want a substantial household income or part of a family.
Perhaps your current role no longer provides the satisfaction it once did, or you’ve outgrown the company you’re with. It’s time to ask yourself: What’s important to me now and in the next two years? Can my current organization meet those needs? These answers will be your guiding light.
5. You’ve Done Your Time
Have you been with your current organization for what seems like a lifetime while your peers have steadily climbed the corporate ladder? It’s time for a reality check. How aligned are you with your career goals? Can those goals still be achieved within your current confines, or is it time to cut your losses and seek new opportunities?
Remember, just because your progress has been slower than you’d like doesn’t mean you can’t accelerate your career at another company. In fact, you might start at a higher level right from the get-go. Sometimes, a fresh start can bring rapid advancement.
6. You Feel Resentful
Fairness in the workplace is a cornerstone of employee happiness. If you’ve ever felt that you were unfairly overlooked for a promotion, you know the lingering frustration it can cause. Sometimes, the only way to remedy this situation is by actively seeking positions at your desired level elsewhere. It’s not a matter of sentimentality; it’s about looking out for your own interests.
You have to take care of yourself, and if your experience and qualifications no longer align with your current role, it’s high time to aim higher. Explore how to make it happen within your current organization by consulting a trusted senior or mentor. If options are limited, it’s time to cast your net wider.
7. You Know There Are Better Positions Out There
Ever seen those job postings that make your heart race? The ones with massive salary increases and heaps of prestige? The ones that you know you’re more than capable of doing? That nagging feeling you have is called FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and guess what? It’s there for a reason because you ARE missing out.
There’s no harm in dipping your toe into the job search waters for that dream position. Ask yourself, “What do I need to do to feel confident about going for it?” Of course, there’s always the option of taking the career elevator if you’re determined to make it happen.
8. Know When You’re Happy with Your Career
Now, after all those considerations, let’s shift to a more positive note. What if you’re genuinely content with your current situation? You enjoy your job, your workplace is awesome, and your colleagues are the greatest bunch of people you’ve ever worked with. Recognizing that you’re in a fantastic place is just as vital as recognizing when it’s time to aim higher.
Contentment isn’t a crime; it’s a gift. If you’re happy with where you are, relish it. Don’t let external career pressures make you doubt your happiness. Your career path should ultimately align with your personal aspirations and desires.
Now, if you’re ready to make those career dreams a reality, check out Generation Women’s flagship program, The Career Elevator. It could be the key to unlocking your full potential and taking your career to new heights!
Remember, whether you’re aiming for the stars or basking in the contentment of your current role, your journey is uniquely yours. Embrace it, and make the most of every step. You’ve got the skills, the vision, and the determination to succeed, and I have no doubt that your career will shine brightly. Keep up the great work, and let your journey be an inspiration to others!
So, here’s to your promotion ready future, full of excitement and success!
If you’d like a helping hand with getting to the next level you should grab my FREE GET PROMOTED CHECKLIST that can help you get there!
