Personal Advancement

Going for a Promotion:
How to Make Your Move

A great opportunity has just opened up at your company and you can’t wait to apply. What’s the best way to stack the cards in your favour?

By Angela MacKenzie
[ 2009-03-04 ]

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1. Find out if the job suits you

If you are really interested in a particular job, find out first what the specifics include and if it’s the right fit for you. “Go talk to the manager of the section,” advises Serina Pu, a human resources consultant based in Vancouver. Ask what skills are required and how much experience is necessary.

2. Talk to your manager

Since maintaining a strong relationship with your current boss is important regardless of whether you stay in your present position or move to greener pastures, communicating effectively is key. Explain to your boss that you enjoy working for them, but would like to explore opportunities so that you can develop different skills, says Vancouver career coach Barbara Hughes. Also explain that you would provide ample notice and support any transitions. This should quell your boss’ concerns about your reason for leaving and how your departure will affect the department.

3. Remember: it’s business, not politics

Playing office politics is not the right way to move up in a company, says Gerald Eiers, who successfully landed a promotion to vice president and general manager of his company, International Water Guard, after several years with the organization. “Rallying people around you [...] is something you do in politics, not in business,” he says.

But building positive relationships within the company can be helpful, says Charmin Rockwell of Career Employment and Counselling Services. She suggests networking with managers in other departments who know your work and could vouch for your track record in the future.


4. Apply for the job

You’ve done your homework, talked to the boss and made the right connections within the company. Now you’re ready to make your move. Hughes recommends you follow the job posting’s instructions on how to apply for the job or simply submit your cover letter and resume to the human resources department.

“Don’t go beyond that,” Hughes says, “because then the perception is overt solicitation.”

Read about the other fine points of applying for a better job:

Are You Promotion Worthy?

Promotion Checklist

Promotions and Money: How to Tackle Two Tough Topics

Combating a Negative Professional Image

Promotion Plan: Going From Invisible to Indispensable

Add Up Your Skills to Multiply Your Chances

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