Asking for a promotion is one of the most difficult things you’ll ever have to do. Most people find it downright terrifying. Unfortunately, this is one of those things where – unless you ask -you’ll never get it. What this means is that eventually you’ll have to suck it up, approach your boss, and ask for that promotion.
It’s important that you do this strategically. You see, if you get the promotion you want then great, congratulations. On the other hand, in the event that you’re denied, it could end up damaging your career and reputation.
Basically, if your boss says no then you’ll end up looking very bad. This is why you need to be smart when asking for a promotion. To help you get through this difficult task, here are some guidelines to follow when asking for a promotion.
1. Decide what you actually want
Before meeting with your boss figure out what you actually need. Do you want more money? To manage more people, change teams, switch projects, or have increased power and responsibility?
It helps to figure out which direction the company is going and what your boss wants. By aligning yourself with the company goals, you’re more likely to get what you want. The bottom line is that it helps go with the flow and do what is most likely to benefit the company.
2. Make your argument
When asking for a promotion see yourself as a lawyer arguing in court. You have to persuade your boss and make an excellent case for being promoted. This ultimately means you need to prove yourself and provide evidence that you’re the most qualified candidate. You can almost see it as a type of job application.
You need to think of this ahead of time and gather proof. List your experience and the things you’ve achieved for the company. How do you bring value? Can you provide feedback from colleagues?
Another useful tool is offered from other companies. If the competition has offered you a job, then now is a great time to mention it. That being said, you don’t want to create a hostile situation, so be discrete when talking about job offers. Don’t give your manager an ultimatum. This could backfire on you. Instead, simply mention that other people are interested.
3. Wait for the right moment
Whether or not you get the promotion really depends on your timing. Your success will largely depend on what’s happening in the company. Think about things like performance reviews and other factors like recent achievements, layoffs, the performance of your team, and if the company is growing or not.
Most companies have a procedure for promotions and reviews. In most cases you’ll want to wait until your review comes up. Don’t sit around until this happens, start building your case ahead of time and think about your argument. You want to prepare yourself as thoroughly as possible.
If your company doesn’t have a structured review process, then the best time to approach your manager is directly after a large deal or project is finished. This way your achievements are still in mind.
If you do this then realize that it might take time to get an answer Your boss may want to wait until your review comes up. Management may require additional evidence from you. The point is that there are many factors in play and you shouldn’t expect an immediate response. Be patient and see how things play out.
4. Have the right attitude
They say that your attitude will determine your altitude. This might sound corny, but it’s true. When asking for a promotion you need to be polite, as opposed to rude or overbearing. Keep your temper under control, and avoid becoming angry if you’re turned down. It’s also important that you’re open to direction and feedback. Also, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is entering into the negotiation with a sense of entitlement.
Simply expecting to be given a promotion because you’ve asked is the worst position you can take. In fact, management may have a completely different view of your abilities than you do. This is especially true if you’re not a top performer in the company.
5. Create a proposal
Don’t walk blindly into the review. It’s a good idea to create a 1-3 page proposal. In this document provide evidence why you deserve to be promoted. Showcase proof, like your achievements and the areas where you can add value to the company. Also include things like positive feedback from other employees.
Once this proposal is drawn up., send it to your manger, ahead of your time. This gives them a chance to read it over and think about the evidence you’ve provided. Doing this can greatly increase your chances of success during the review.
6. Don’t give up
When asking for a promotion you have to think long term. If you’re denied the first time, do not simply give up. No matter how well prepared you are, there’s always the chance that management will deny you. If you’re turned down, then the best thing you can do is ask for an explanation. Your boss should provide reasons for why you were passed over. They should also provide you with a plan for reaching your goals. At the same time you should attempt to create a timeline with management for when you might be promoted.
At this point you need to go back to the grindstone and get ready for your next review. You may have to improve your performance or gain more experience. It could also be a case of attaining additional qualifications. Then there’s the chance that your manager simply cannot provide what you’re after at this point. What you also have to realize is that missing out on a promotion isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The fact that you’ve asked shows that you’re ambitious person who wants to move up in the world.