Three Ways to Successfully Climb the Career Ladder
As a successful female entrepreneur, Monica Eaton the COO of Chargebacks911, is often called upon to share her expertise on how she got to where she is today. The Omaha World-Herald did just that. Eaton, along with other successful business individuals, was featured in this article offering key tips on how to climb the career ladder and come out on top.
These three simple strategies will help you reach the top; improve your leadership skills, be a team player and be visible.
Firstly, improving on your leadership skills will aid in your career progression. Artika Tyner is quoted in this article in which she comments on how studies have shown that although not everyone is born as a leader, it is however, a skill that can be developed.
Research has shown that leaders are made through the development of core leadership competencies such as strategic planning, critical thinking, problem solving and team building,” said Artika Tyner, an author, speaker, and leadership and public policy professor.
Tyner cited a study by the University of Illinois that examined whether leaders are born or made. “The study supports the idea that leadership development follows a specific progression.”
Therefore, it can be said that if you are not a born leader, you can push yourself to become one. You just need to focus on developing the skills needed. However, you cannot make it to the top being solely a leader, you must also excel at working in a team.
Eaton expands on the importance of being a team player, noting that you must “maintain a whatever-it-takes-to-get-the-job-done philosophy.” Working hard and possessing a positive attitude towards others, your job role, and the company will help you get that little bit closer to your ultimate goal. “Stay late, come in early and volunteer to help others as often as possible”
Eaton also explains that by embracing tasks outside of your comfort zone or job description, you will be even more valuable to your employer.
Become the go-to person at work by adapting a love-to-learn attitude. Employers seek out individuals who want to go beyond their comfort level to learn new things.”
The last tip is to be visible. Make sure your direct boss is aware of your hard work and great performance. As Melissa Lamson advises in this article, you must adopt a proactive approach at building a relationship with your manager, don’t rely on just being noticed.
Too many professionals labor under the same myth,” Lamson said. “They assume that if they work hard and perform well, their boss will notice. The truth is every boss has big responsibilities and may be too busy to notice everything their reports accomplish.
“Rather than passively wait for recognition, praise and direction, smart employees will proactively build a productive relationship with their bosses,” she added. “Schedule regular face time with your boss and make sure you prepare an agenda for each meeting to make every moment count. Ask for feedback and expectations so you know how to deliver the right results.”
