How to Ask For a Promotion at Work
The first step is to jot down two statements. One statement covers how the first 90 days will be spent once promoted to the position and the second statement will cover how to help replacement fill the previous position. These statements provide the information needed to answer the questions bosses may raise about the promotion. Write down the two statements nicely in case the boss asks for answers in writing.
10 Steps To Ask For a Promotion at Work
• List all skills that have been gained with the current job position and through recent education that makes you the ideal candidate for the job.
• List all weaknesses that may be an impediment to adequate performance in the new position and write out how the weaknesses can be replaced with strengths.
• When asking for a promotion through e-mail, try to avoid a passive tone. Show confidence and competence for the job.
• Send the e-mail on a less busy day of the week. This varies with each company. However, Mondays are normally the busiest for many companies and Fridays may be relatively relaxed. In the e-mail, propose a date and time when you can discuss the promotion in person. Give at least 72 hours after sending the e-mail to call the boss and ask if the email is delivered. 72 hours is not long enough for the boss to forget the e-mail and not too short for the employer to think you are hungry with the promotion.
• Be direct. Employees shouldn’t expect employers to know they want a promotion. An employee must state clearly that they are available to take the promotion and show how they are the best choice. When asking for a promotion, do not use words such as “think’ or “feel” you are the right choice. Be clear, confident and direct.
• Appeal to the priorities of the boss before asking for a promotion. Know the employer and where the company sits in a variety of issues. For instance, if the employer is concerned about finances, tell them how you can cut costs.
• Be grateful for the opportunities offered in the current position but do not act submissive because this may be a sign of an employee who can’t stand on two feet when faced with a problem or one who can’t work effectively without accolades or supervision.
• Express the desire to hold the position long before the position becomes vacant. However, do not go overboard with the expression because that would make it seem like an obsession.
• Give credit to all who have helped in one’s professional development instead of taking sole credit. View being a part of a winning team as a strong point rather than a weakness.
• Never bad mouth co-workers when asking for a promotion; it is not a competition. However, show competence for the position.
