Expect, it never really works like that because promotions aren’t passive things. They don’t fall into your lap, and the world won’t just give it to you. They’re hard earned and require careful planning. If you have set your sights on a new internal position, here’s some ways to prepare for it:

Help me, help you

Yes, we did just use a Jerry Maguire quote, but in this case, it’s perfectly acceptable. The trick is to get your boss on board and let them know your plans, so they can help you execute them. People often deliberate about telling their current managers. However, the odds are they’re going to find out about it sooner than you think, and they’ll appreciate you trusting them in the first place. You can also ask them for honest feedback about your performance and what you need to do to improve.

Shout it out

People don’t like to brag about the things they’ve done, so mini successes often go unnoticed throughout your career. It’s your job to let your boss know what you’ve been up to each week and the ways in which you’ve triumphed. Send them weekly summaries so that they understand how you’re excelling, and in turn, they can pass that on to the relevant senior team. They won’t be with you every second of every day, so the responsibility to document your success lies with you.

Mentor me

Seek out a mentor within the organization, and this could be across departments. It demonstrates that you’re committed to your professional development and will impress your bosses. It also gives you the opportunity to receive feedback and tips from someone who hasn’t worked closely with you, and therefore, doesn’t have any natural bias.

Look the part

It’s an age-old adage, but dress for the position you want instead of the position you’re in. People will see you for whatever you show them. If you power dress and are always well put together, they will begin to envisage you in leadership roles.

Let the results lead you

[clickToTweet tweet=”There is nothing better in the world of business than results.” quote=”There is nothing better in the world of business than results.”]

There is nothing better in the world of business than results. It’s what keeps it spinning around. While your performance is important and will be noted, the results you achieve will always outshine everything else. Think about the company’s objectives and keep a note of everything you do that aids the bottom line and those goals. Be someone known for results as opposed to just a ‘hard worker.’ Working hard is needed and great, but results will do the talking.

[clickToTweet tweet=”Working hard is needed and great, but results will do the talking.” quote=”Working hard is needed and great, but results will do the talking.”]

Self-develop

Great leaders all have the ability to develop themselves constantly. They’re self-aware, emotionally intelligent, and are bettering themselves every day. Continue to work on yourself and hone new skills. Bring new things to the table and expand your knowledge and skill base. Someone who is always learning is someone who can keep up with anything thrown at them.

[clickToTweet tweet=”Someone who is always learning is someone who can keep up with anything thrown at them.” quote=”Someone who is always learning is someone who can keep up with anything thrown at them.”]