Everyone longs for the day when the boss comes by to say they’ve got a promotion, a transfer with a bigger paycheck or a very interesting new job.
Don’t wait for it to happen. You can do a lot toward moving yourself into position for a job you want. Consider these steps.
* First, do your job well. Know what is expected of you and realize that your bosses want you to grow in your position and take on new responsibilities.
* Decide how you could do more. In The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers (Crown Business), co-author James M. Citrin says there are two ways for gaining permission to do more: By asking for it or by using “implied permission.”
Implied permission tactics include getting an additional degree or credentials, or adopting a leadership role in a situation where no individual is clearly in charge.
Direct approaches may include negotiating with someone who has permission to lead a project, but doesn’t have the time.
* Pay attention to your image. Avoid office politics, don’t grandstand and keep out of other people’s affairs.
* Step in during a crisis. Performing well under pressure is one of the best ways to get noticed. Show your initiative.
A poll done for Accountemps shows that it’s common for managers to head projects for which they have limited experience.
Max Messmer, author of Motivating Employees For Dummies, writes that the ability to motivate people and oversee activities is transferable to projects outside your area of expertise.