What do you do if you want to show initiative and exceed your job duties for a promotion?

Early in my career, I was eager for a promotion from content writing specialist to brand and marketing strategist. I excelled at creating content, but I wasn't sure what the strategist role entailed. So, I took the initiative to schedule coffee chats with senior strategists. I asked insightful questions about their day-to-day tasks, the skills they used, and the challenges they faced. This intel helped me tailor my approach to showcasing the strategic thinking I already possessed within my content creation. Don't operate in a vacuum. Research the desired role thoroughly. Talk to people in that position, understand their responsibilities, and identify the specific skills and knowledge that differentiate them from your current level.

As a content marketing specialist, I noticed a recurring issue with our website's conversion rates for a specific product line. Instead of just creating content, I dug deeper. I analyzed user behavior data and identified a gap in product messaging. I proactively proposed a content strategy that addressed this gap, resulting in a significant increase in conversions. This initiative demonstrated my ability to identify problems, develop solutions, and contribute beyond my core tasks. Look for opportunities to solve problems that extend beyond your immediate duties. This showcases your strategic thinking and willingness to go the extra mile. Analyze data, identify bottlenecks, and propose creative solutions that benefit the company's goals.

While my content creation skills were strong, I knew I needed to develop a deeper understanding of business strategy to truly excel as a strategist. I sought out internal training opportunities offered by the company, particularly those focused on marketing strategy, competitor analysis, and budget negotiation. Additionally, I enrolled in online courses on business analytics and marketing leadership. Invest in your continuous learning. Take advantage of company-provided training programs, attend industry conferences, or pursue online courses. Broaden your skillset to demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the bigger picture.

I actively participated in internal cross-functional teams, collaborating with sales, product development, and customer service. This allowed me to build strong relationships with colleagues across departments. By understanding their perspectives and challenges, I was able to tailor my content strategy to address their needs. My network became a valuable source of support and helped me identify potential strategic opportunities. Don't work in isolation. Build relationships within your company, especially with people in departments that complement your expertise. This fosters collaboration, exposes you to diverse viewpoints and allows you to contribute strategically across the organization.

I regularly sought feedback from my manager, and colleagues on my work. I wasn't afraid to ask questions and be open to constructive criticism. This feedback helped me identify areas for improvement and refine my strategic thinking skills. Embrace a growth mindset. Actively seek feedback from trusted sources. Be open to learning from your mistakes and continuously strive to improve your skills and strategic thinking. Feedback can be a powerful tool for growth.

Go over and above your prescribed and selected duties, without compromising your mental health too much. Easiest way to stand out.