HOW TO GET A PROMOTION AT WORK

Asking for a promotion at work can be so stressful for some employees, it leaves them panic stricken and stuck in a career rut. Most professionals desire to take on more responsibilities, climb the corporate ladder and advance their careers forward, but few rarely take the opportunity

upon themselves to make that happen. Asking for a promotion doesn't have to be nerve wracking. With these helpful tips, professionals can easily be on their way to feelings of accomplishment, greater projects and higher pay.

First, before asking for or seeking a promotion, all professionals should update their resumes. Many human resources managers require resumes from internal candidates for open managerial positions. Waiting until the last minute to update one's skills, accomplishments and past projects can let important things slip through the cracks. This refresher will also prime employees for future interviews regarding the promotion. Next, employees should formally apply for open managerial positions. While this seems like a no brainer, many professionals believe that their bosses or human resources managers would have already approached them regarding the position if they had thought it was a natural fit. Unfortunately, this leaves many employees in the cold in regards to promotions. Hiring managers or supervisors often post open positions to see which of their employees is motivated enough to advocate for the position. Formally applying for open managerial jobs leaves no doubt in the mind of company executives that you want more responsibility.

The next step in seeking a promotion at work is to volunteer time, effort and abilities for the sake of the company. For example, if one's boss asks for help taking notes during a meeting or is looking for a person to plan the annual party, employees should volunteer. This proves to supervisors that the employee is a team player, willing to help in any way and able to take on additional projects. The last and final thing for employees to do is pointedly speak to their boss about wanting a promotion. Professionals are their own best advocates and should sell themselves, their skills and accomplishments to the supervisors. Speaking plainly and directly can be appreciated by supervisors with little time for small talk.

While asking or seeking a promotion can be stressful for many professionals, the benefits of greater responsibility, a sense of accomplishment and potentially higher pay could make the experience worth the nerves.