How to Get Ahead at Work

Intro: Does it seem like other employees are always getting the promotions over you? Are you ready to move up in your company? Follow these steps and suggestions to help you get ahead at work.

Step 1: Keep track of your accomplishments. Not only keep track of what you have done but keep track of specific numbers also. If you have doubled or tripled your sales numbers in the past year then you should keep track of that. You can put together a long list of accomplishments to show your boss when doing performance reviews or asking for a raise.

Step 2: To get ahead at work, you must share your goals and desires with your boss and upper management. When they are interviewing you, you should tell them that you are looking to work your way up within their company and form a long lasting relationship. Most people stop there and just assume that the company remembers that you said that. The people who get promotions continually let their boss know that they would like to advance in the company someday relatively soon.

Step 3: Ask your boss if there is any classes you can take to help train you for a management position. If you let your boss know you are interested in the upper level finance managerial position and are taking night classes to help learn everything you need to know for that position, he/she will automatically think of you first when the position opens up.

Step 4: To get ahead at work, take on any additional responsibilities that you can. Word of your hard work should not go unnoticed.

Step 5: Be open to relocation even if it means moving. Let your boss know that you are open to anything that can help you advance in the company. Relocating for a year or two often results in a promotion when you return back to the original location.

Step 6: To get ahead at work, try to get your boss to take you under his wing. Successful people love to help an up-and-comer. Find something your boss would love to talk about and then ask him/her about it. If you heard a story that he/she single handedly help saved the company 5 years earlier before he/she was promoted, then you should bring it up and ask him/her about it. Your boss will love to tell you about it. At the end of the story, let your boss know that you are striving to be where he/she is today and would love any guidance to help you get to where he/she is.

Step 7: If you don’t already have a college degree, it may be time to get one. Not having your degree may cause you to get overlooked when an upper level position opens up. Does most of upper level management have a bachelor’s degree? A master’s degree? Becoming as educated as your bosses should help you reach their level.

Tips: Don’t complain, criticize, or condemn anyone.

Don’t be a suck-up. Give only sincere appreciation.

You have to ask! Ask for the things you want and they will often be given to you.

Warnings: Getting involved in office drama and gossip will hold you back. Be professional and don’t talk about others behind their backs.

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