I wrote a book called "So, You Want To Get Promoted"? in 2016. The book was aimed at helping people who want to move up in their career, but find it hard for various reasons. By the feedback I received and from the distribution figures, the book was well received, especially by young executives.
However, many people who get elevated into higher positions, then find it a struggle to fit in. It is akin to buying a new suit that still does not hug your body well enough. You will need to grown into your new clothes. So, now that you have received that promotion, which you wanted, what are the immediate next steps?
Match Expectations
First, speak with your line leader and get both your expectations matched. Many newly promoted executives do not have a clear understanding of their new role, and how it differs from their previous one. The people who are most successful, are the ones who recognise that with the promotion, expectations of them are always higher than before. If you misunderstand or do not align yourself with what your boss expects from you, it will lead to frustration and failure in the long run. Be clear and be prepared for some initial confusion. Sort the confusion out with proper discussions with your boss and make sure you are both on the same page.
Prioritise Goals
I remind all newly promoted executives of this saying: "do not prioritise your schedule, but instead schedule your priorities." Promotion always comes with new expectations and tasks. It is exciting, yet it will elicit feelings of nervousness in you. To successfully navigate your new job, you will need to unclutter you mind. Establishing goals and working through them systematically and methodically will create the structure you need. Plus, this will ensure that keep aligned with your bosses.
Know Your Boss
Sometimes it might be the same superior you had before, or your promotion may require you to move to another division within your organisation. Regardless of how well you knew them before, once you get promoted, you might find that your boss treats you differently now. This is mainly because they have placed trust in your ability and endorsed your promotion. You must do a "deep-dive" into what your boss is like. Figure out their favoured modalities of work such as their meeting preferences, update requirements, and reporting structure. And, you need to know clearly what your levels of authority are. This means how much autonomy your boss is willing to give you. Developing a solid working relationship with your line leader will make all the difference.
Build Relationships
There is no need for "team-building" when your focus is on "relationship-building." Remind yourself that the one layer below you in the hierarchy of your company can make or break you. Put in the requisite time to forge decent and wholesome relationships with your colleagues, bosses, stakeholders, and your down-liners. And, always understand that the foundation of any relationship is trust and respect. Learn to give respect to build trust with your co-workers. Communicate effectively and efficiently. Know when to "joke around" and when to be serious. Always communicate in a clear, concise, and courteous manner with everyone in your organisation.
Continue to Upskill
People tend to think "they have arrived" when they get promoted, and stop building their knowledge and skills. This is a mistake and will ultimately stunt your growth. You do not have to be a "fountain of knowledge" but you must be willing and prepared to continuously upskill and learn, even as you get promoted. The higher you go, the more you must read and study your chosen industry. You cannot be shy to admit you do not know something. Instead, you have to accept your shortcomings and proceed to rectify your limitations. You will even have to be prepared to receive "instructions" from someone who reports to you. Never stop with upgrading your skills and knowledge.
Drop The Arrogance
I have met so many confident people, especially in their twenties, who are driven and competent, yet fail at this one rudimentary step. When they get promoted at a young age, the exuberance and excitement that comes with that age thwarts them. People forget that a little humility goes a long way in making them real champions. While you should be elated with your promotion, you have to drop the arrogance and self-importance. Many talented people get sidelined when they fail to understand that no matter how competent they are, they will need a hand to lift them up. I am only interested in nurturing capable people who are not pretentious.
If you take cognisance of these six steps above, you will be propelled to greater heights in your new position.
