As the New Year begins to pick up steam many of us have resolved to take off a few pounds, exercise more, or quit a bad habit. Hopefully this resolve will carry over into your career and help you make 2012 a banner year!
Whether you are contemplating a raise, a promotion or a transfer to another department here are some tips from an HR perspective to help you get that needed boost your job.
1. Be Ready for Performance Reviews. Many employers will do salary reviews in the first quarter of the year regardless of when your annual performance review process will be conducted. This is a good time to be productive. The last thing you did good (or bad) is usually what sticks out in managers' minds; so when your review is coming up make sure to get noticed for the right reasons.
2. Use the Open Door Policy. If your Company touts an open door policy make use of it by talking to managers about what positions you are interested in. It shows initiative and lets managers know you want your hat in the ring. That is important even if you aren’t ready for the position. Training opportunities may become available that you could be considered for if your managers know you want to progress.
3. Get Educated! Look into getting a college degree, certificate, certification or other training that will enhance your career. It also shows initiative to employers. Check to see if your employer offers tuition assistance as an added incentive.Trade groups or associations are another good way to find career enhancing seminars or courses.
4. Get Involved. Join networking groups to interact with peers in your organization and others. Start a softball team, certification study group, or other group or team that joins the interests of you and your co-workers. You will get the opportunity to know your co-workers and managers on a more personal level. This is great for your career and can improve your work life. Encourage your company to get involved in community activities like recycling efforts, food drives and education fundraising. These are great team-building opportunities.
5. Step Up. Every employer loves their “go to” person! Be the employee often puts in extra hours to meet deadlines. If you are asked to volunteer to help with projects outside of your scope of work go for it. This doesn’t mean you should forfeit your social life and family to get ahead, but even the occasional long evening can really boost your stock with management. You be the one to decide what level of commitment you can make to a project and then do it!
We all struggle to find that perfect balance between work and life that keeps us motivated but doesn’t wear us out. Creating a great work atmosphere can boost your self-confidence and improve your chances of advancing your career no matter what goals you desire to achieve.
Join the Conversation