You can show up every day and put in the work, but if no one notices, you can’t expect to get ahead. Many people want more recognition for their contributions at work, but they’re not sure how to appropriately promote themselves. They want a promotion, a pay raise or a shot to manage the next big project, but their boss isn’t aware of all the contributions they have quietly and consistently been making.
Fortunately, you can take steps to make yourself more visible at work without coming across as self-absorbed or obnoxious. Joel Garfinkle, an executive leadership coach and author, says it all comes down to making your achievements an integral part of your directors’ success.
In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share Garfinkle’s thoughts on four ways you can up your visibility in the workplace.
1. Offer to help. To get the recognition you crave, look for ways to help your superiors with a project they really care about. Garfinkle says you can simply ask, “How can I help you?” or “What can I give you for the presentation on Thursday?” Is there a task that no one on your team wants to tackle? Take it on and your organization’s leaders will notice.
2. Look for missing pieces. Many executives say they appreciate certain employees because those employees just “get it.” That “it,” according to Garfinkle, depends on your organization’s culture, values and history. To find “it,” he suggests asking questions that will give you an advantage. For example, approach directors with questions like, “Are there any hidden systems I’m not aware of?” or “What should I keep in mind as I tackle this problem?”
3. Improve your work. When you want your bosses to notice you in a positive way, strive to do your best work—on time and on budget. When your superiors know they can count on you, they will be more likely to put in genuine effort to help you get ahead, says Garfinkle. To learn how you can improve, say something like “Can I get your feedback on my most recent presentation?” or “What am I doing well right now? And how could I improve?”
4. Ask senior leaders for advice. In addition to guidance on improvement areas, stakeholders who are invested in your success can also help you navigate your organization. Garfinkle says senior leaders can advocate for you in business planning and suggest your name when development opportunities arise. Consider asking executives within your company, “What have you done yourself to get to your current level?” and “What skills should I start practicing now in order to advance to the next level?”
If you want your name to come up during important conversations at work, it’s important that you stay visible. Think about how you can assist your bosses in meaningful ways, proactively seek to understand hidden processes or systems, and ask bosses for their guidance. When you also focus on doing your best work, you can leverage your increased visibility to keep moving ahead in your organization and career.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Joel Garfinkle is an executive leadership coach who is recognized as one of the top 50 coaches in the United States. He is the author of 11 books, including Getting Ahead.