CAREER TIPS - How To Ask For A Promotion: 7 Expert Tips To Build Your Case
Posted 17th February 2025 • Written by Luciana Paulise on forbes.com • • • • • •
1) Be Clear On What You Want
The first step in preparing to ask for a promotion is to define what you want clearly so you can stay focused. A promotion can mean different things: a salary increase, a leadership role, a title change, or a combination of these. Start by asking yourself key questions: What exactly are you aiming for? Consider both your needs and the needs of your company. What would be a realistic request? Identify the non-negotiable aspects of your ask and where you might be flexible. For example, you might seek a leadership role and a raise but be open to taking on more responsibilities without an immediate salary increase.
2) Dress The Part
Once you've established your goals, start taking on extra responsibilities that are in line with the promotion you’re aiming for, even if they are not part of your current job duties. Act like a leader in order to become one. When colleagues need help to finish a project or complete smaller tasks, offer to assist. However, it’s important to focus on tasks that are related to the role you desire. For example, if you’re aiming for a leadership position, offer to support your manager with their tasks, or stand in for them during projects or meetings. You can also request your manager to involve you in cross-departmental projects or take the initiative to reach out to managers in other departments where your skills are most relevant.
3) Build Your Case
Build a strong case by understanding the requirements of your desired role and demonstrating how you meet and exceed them. Start by documenting your achievements, especially those that have positively impacted the company's bottom line, such as revenue growth, cost savings, or efficiency improvements. Promotions are often given to those who demonstrate leadership potential and the ability to take initiative. Highlight any projects where you took the lead, mentored others, or exceeded your job description. If possible, gather testimonials or keep track of positive feedback received in performance reviews or via email.
4) Know Your Worth
Research whether the promotion should come with a raise. A typical raise for a promotion could be between 10-20% of your current salary, but it's important to be realistic. Use tools like salary comparison websites, industry reports, and networking to understand the average salary for the role you're aiming for. Websites such as Glassdoor, Payscale, and Salary.com and Salaryexpert.com can be valuable resources. Take into account your company's pay structure, any promotions within your team, and the overall financial health of the business. Also, it’s not the moment to be humble, identify your strengths and make sure you to get paid for them.
5) Know When to Ask
Consider asking for promotion during performance review periods, when it’s a natural time to bring up your case, or after a successful project. If you’ve recently completed a high-impact project or received notable recognition, use this momentum to discuss a promotion. Also, take into account how the company is doing financially to adjust your expectations or timing.
6) Make the Request
After analyzing the previous steps, ask for what you need. If you have an ongoing dialogue with your manager, you can start the discussion informally in your next one-on-one meeting by telling them about your future plans. Depending on the company culture and structure, you may need to write a formal proposal documenting your case. Use all the information from the previous steps and take action.
7) Remain Engaged and Assertive
Regardless of the outcome, remain engaged and assertive by being positive and requesting specific feedback from your manager on the next steps. If you’re not promoted immediately, find out what areas you need to work on and set a timeline for reassessment. If your promotion is contingent on achieving certain milestones, clarify what those are and how you’ll be measured. Regularly check in with your manager to ensure you’re on track. Whether you receive the promotion or not, remain positive and professional, performing always at a high level. Ask for support from a coach to stay on track and keep focus on the end goal.
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