Career | Anatomy of a promotion

To stand out and gain the recognition necessary to advance, it takes strategy, dedication, and alignment with personal values (and careful attention to avoid negotiating on what should be non-negotiable - like health and family, for example). For those aiming to progress in their careers, it’s essential to focus on the following points:

Goals and planning

The journey toward a promotion starts with clarity about what you want (and here lies a very dangerous trap: the influence of family, friends, peers, trends, and all possible external influences). Ask yourself what and why you are pursuing this promotion (Is it to advance your career? Increase your financial earnings?) This self-knowledge helps in outlining a strategy aligned with your long-term goals. Additionally, it is essential to understand clearly what you expect from the desired position, including the challenges, responsibilities, necessary skills, and, of course, recognition.

Action plan

Once the objective is clear, develop an action plan. Ask yourself what skills, knowledge, or attitudes you need to develop to qualify for this position. This might include:

• Skills development: If the promotion requires specific skills, seek qualifications and ways to demonstrate them, such as formal education and certifications
• Soft skills: Competencies such as leadership, communication, empathy, and conflict management are crucial for roles with more responsibility. People management skills, even if you do not aim to lead teams, are also highly valued in the market and useful in any situation
• Networking: Build solid relationships within the organization. Stay visible and connected with leaders and colleagues who can support your growth, always ethically, legally, and fairly

Organization and superiors

Promotion also depends on the support of the organization and leaders' attention to talent and professional needs. Therefore, keep open communication with your manager, whether in feedback meetings - where you can understand where to improve - or in development conversations. In many cases, it is up to leadership to identify and encourage the development of team talents, and you can help by:

• Showing proactivity: Taking on responsibilities beyond your daily tasks shows interest and leadership potential, helping superiors see your potential in a new role
• Demonstrating consistency: Consistent results are one of the keys for the company and managers to trust your ability to take on new challenges. Exceeding expectations adds value and sets you apart from the team
• Expressing interest: At an appropriate time, clearly communicate your interest in a promotion ethically and respectfully. This can help open doors to development discussions

Internal and external factors

In the corporate environment, there are many factors that affect promotion, and not all of them are within your control:

• Internal factors (Skills and performance): These include elements related to your performance, skills, and individual contribution. Maintaining stable performance and continuously adding value are decisive factors.
• External factors (Organizational policy and economic conditions): Elements beyond your control, such as the company’s financial health, internal policies, and availability of positions, also impact promotions. Therefore, maintaining a realistic and adaptable perspective is essential.

Frustration

The path to promotion is not always quick or simple. It is common to encounter moments of frustration, especially if the promotion is delayed or denied. In these moments, the best approach is to:

• Reflect on the feedback received: Assess what can be improved from feedback and seek continuous improvement
• Reevaluate your goals and objectives: If you realize that the desired promotion is not happening, it may be time to review your goals and explore other internal or external opportunities
• Maintain resilience and Ethics: Persisting in your development with persistence and ethics strengthens your character and shows your integrity

Actions

Being ethical means respecting the company’s values and your own principles. Do not attempt to undermine colleagues’ positions or harm others’ work to stand out. Instead:

• Be authentic and collaborative: Genuinely collaborate with your team, share your knowledge, and build an image of empathetic leadership
• Show commitment: Professionals who share the organization’s values and commit to its goals tend to be more valued
• Avoid comparisons: Promotion should be a personal and professional evolution, not an unhealthy competition. Focus on being the best version of yourself, not on surpassing others

Achieving a promotion is a process that requires commitment, discipline, and a strategic approach to personal and professional development. Be open to feedback, maintain clear communication with your leadership, and above all, follow with integrity.

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