Get on the radar of decision makers

The common assumption is that if you do your job well, you will get opportunities for advancement. However, in addition to good performance you need to show that you have the mind-set and maturity to move higher by doing the following;

SEE THINGS HALF FULL: When faced with problems or difficult situations, look for what’s working rather than what’s not. Do not overstate what’s not working. This does not mean that you deny the reality of what is happening but rather that you choose to be optimistic by maintaining a positive outlook on issues.

GO BEYOND THE JOB DESCRIPTION : Go beyond your prescribed role to see where you can contribute more by applying other skills you might have or contributing your energies to other organisational projects. Stay aligned with how your organization is evolving so that you can adapt accordingly and remain relevant. Also familiarize yourself with how decisions are made and priorities decided so that you are in a position to prepare to take advantage of potential opportunities.

MOVE THINGS CONSISTENTLY FORWARD: Determine to break out of any ruts and not to allow any difficult situations to remain unresolved. Bring new ideas and solutions to the table. Demonstrate that you can adjust to change, work through challenging times and make your voice heard. Acknowledge even little steps of progress. Take some positive risks to make your workplace a better environment.

DON’T WEAR YOUR FRUSTRATIONS ON YOUR SLEEVE: Be level-headed; increase your self-awareness and reflect on your own behaviour especially how you react when you feel pushed outside your ‘preference or comfort zone’. When people sense that you are too emotional or panic easily they may not take you seriously. Make sure your actions are worthy of the business setting.

BE A THINKER AND A SAFE PAIR OF HANDS: Show that you are fully invested in the organization and its future; that you are capable of leading and inspiring new perspectives in others, challenging processes that no longer work and can be counted on to do important work well and promptly.

Now take action: Make a plan for developing the above ‘competencies’.