- Michael Doolin has worked as a HR director for British Airways, PwC Ireland, and DHL.
- Doolin said managers often give subtle signs that they are considering employees for promotion.
- Being asked to represent the company, lead trainings or given new responsibilities are good signs.
This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Michael Doolin, CEO of Clover HR and former human resources director at PwC, British Airways, and DPD in Ireland. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
A promotion might mean a new job title or an increase in status, it could also represent a pay rise or bring an improvement in your benefits package. A promotion is a sign of progress, of improvement, and sometimes of vindication. It's recognition that hard work pays off.
People are promoted for different reasons. They might have achieved a new professional qualification, like, for those in accountancy, law or medicine. It could come because you've met milestones, brought in new customers, or received positive feedback from clients.
Either way, here are six signs that you might be heading toward a promotion at work.
Changes within your organization
Look out for shifts in your company. Is it expanding or restructuring, or is your boss being promoted? Changes in an organization throw up opportunities all the time, and you may be unexpectedly earmarked for a new role.
However, in some mature organizations, the chain of succession could be more concrete. My second job, for example, was at Ford Motor Company, which was a highly structured organization where your career was mapped out for the next five to 10 years.
This approach works in some companies, but it has a habit of coming asunder when life gets in the way. I think there's a balance to be struck between mapping everything out and being flexible.
However, for many companies workplace reorganization creates space for promotions.
Positive feedback
You should be having regular performance management discussions. If you're receiving positive feedback there, it will give you an indication of whether your employer is happy with your work. You might be asked about your career goals, too, which can be a promising sign.
Being asked to represent your company
Senior managers might encourage you to attend exhibitions or get involved in extra-curricular activities on behalf of the company. They might request that you act as an ambassador for the organization, or you might find yourself being asked to speak at events. While it's no guarantee of a promotion, it's further evidence that you're valued at work and may be considered for one when it comes.
Being introduced to new people
Being sought out to meet new people, whether that's invitations to meetings or introductions to customers, is another important indication that your opinions and contribution to the company are valued.
Being asked for your input
If your boss often asks for your opinion, it's a positive sign. It shows that they respect your judgment and appreciate your feedback. Use these as opportunities to take initiative and prove your worth to your manager. Do so in a subtle way: volunteering, writing proposals, or taking on additional responsibilities. Never forget that making your boss look good is a great way to set yourself apart.
Taking on extra responsibility
Being asked to take on extra responsibility is another signal that you're eligible for a promotion. Common examples of this are being asked to take on more work or new clients. Alternatively, you might be asked to mentor less experienced members of the team or lead training.
If you want a promotion, you should be looking to take on more responsibility all the time, as it shows a willingness to learn and add value. Being given a new responsibility is an opportunity for managers to assess your suitability for a new role. And for you, it's a chance to prove yourself.
Asking for a promotion
If you're unsure whether you're up for a promotion, ask your boss directly. Too often, employees assume their manager knows they want to be promoted. People who are consistently striving for promotions should have a clear conversation about promotions at least once a year.
My advice is to ask your boss, "Can we have a conversation about me and where I'm at?" This conversation might be during an appraisal discussion, it might come up in a car journey, or even subtly over coffee.
You can be direct: make it clear that you think you're ready for advancement and put a business case forward as to why you should be considered. After the discussion, get it documented in writing where you want to be and how quickly you want to get there.
Should you accept a promotion if it's offered?
Many times, we have a classic conundrum where someone is asked to do a different role overnight with little preparation. A promotion may not always be right for you, and you may not choose to accept one if it's offered.
Depending on the degree of ambition, I generally advise accepting the promotion and paddling very, very hard underwater while asking for training, support, and guidance to help you thrive in your new role.