'How to Ask for a Promotion'

How to Ask for a Promotion

By Blog Stories at 05/31/2008 12:51

When things get worse, you may be really stuck inside that office cubicle. Sometimes it is just because competition is really fierce. Sometimes, you are just not noticed because of other star performers in the office. So what do you do? Explicitly ask your boss for a promotion, then. But how? I've read a lot of articles in the Internet about guides to asking for job promotions and asked some professionals I know how they prepare for it and these are some common points they have raised.

• Before talking with your boss, prepare for what you will say. Think about all the good things you have done while you are in your present position. If there is increased productivity in your department, include it in what you will say. If there is a significant increase in sales because of one of your proposals, include it in what you will say. If morale in your department increased because of you, then include it in what you will say. Basically, asking for promotion is like selling yourself to your boss. You don't have to be humble about your accomplishments.

  Before asking for a promotion, of course, you will have to prove that you have been a productive employee under your current post. Your boss will definitely not trust you for a higher position if you do not have a good record in the current one.

• Talk it over with your boss by setting up an appointment with him (remember to write down the date and time in your binder!). This way, you will have more time than by just simply asking him for a minute. Prepare your speech beforehand and explain to him/her why you deserve to be promoted. Also have some preparation for the next position you are targeting to show that you are really serious about it.
• If your promotion is approved, then rejoice. If it s rejected, then don't feel so blue. Always expect the worst and thank your boss whatever the answer to your plea is. Nothing beats a respectful employee. There's always a next time, anyway.