39. Why working Hard is not getting you Promoted

I know the drill; you have been in your role for a while.

You have been doing all the right things: working hard, putting in long hours, delivering all your KPIs, thanking the team, and organizing morning teas.

The projects have been successfully delivered, celebrations were had, and you were acknowledged.

Yet, you can't help but wonder, when will you get noticed, promoted, and paid more for your hard work?

Just Working Hard will not get YOU PROMOTED

Well, here's the thing – you may not be getting the recognition you deserve because you are spending too much time working IN your career and not enough time working ON your career.

Many women face this challenge of doing great work but not being visible enough.

Have you heard of the term "managing up"?

If you are working hard and not getting noticed, it's time to start managing up, and I mean really start doing it - big time! 

Begin by asking yourself these questions:

•   How is your delegation?
•   Do you have a sponsor in the organization?
•   How often do you meet one-on-one with your boss's boss?
•   How often do you meet with your peers individually?
•   How often do you present your work to senior management?

If you aspire to be promoted, you need to focus on your day job – that's a given. However, I recommend carving out 30% of your time to concentrate on the above points. 

Let's go through them:

Delegation

If you are too immersed in your team's work, you won't have enough time to focus on other aspects.

Delegating involves assigning accountability and responsibility to someone else who will deal with the outcomes. Here are some ways to delegate effectively:

•  Identify tasks suitable for delegation.
•  Practice letting go.
•  Clarify priorities.
•  Understand each team member's strengths.
•  Provide context and guidance.
•  Invest in training.
•  Prioritize communication and feedback.
•  Focus on results.

One of the best ways to delegate is by asking team members what they would recommend or suggest when they come to you with questions.

Essentially, you are handing the problem back to them.

Sponsors

To progress your career, find yourself a sponsor within the organization. A sponsor will speak for you when you are not in the room. This can be your boss, but it's beneficial to have relationships with multiple people. Sponsors can assist you in various ways:

•  Advancing your career by providing challenging assignments and promotions.
•  Increasing your visibility within and beyond the organization.
•  Expanding your network and introducing you to influential individuals.
•  Advocating for your abilities, skills, and potential.
•  Providing guidance and feedback.
•  Boosting your confidence and empowering you to take risks.

Your Boss's Boss

How often do you meet with your boss's boss? 

Do you have a relationship with them? 

Aim to touch base with them each quarter. They should know you, be aware of your work, and have an opinion about you. 

It's crucial that the communication happens directly through you and not through others. Building a positive rapport with your boss's boss offers advantages such as increased visibility, career advancement opportunities, broader network, insights into the organisation's direction, mentorship, and organisational influence.

Peer Relationships

Your relationship with your peers is your first team in the business. It is recommended to catch up with them at least once a month. Begin the meetings by asking what they have been up to and how you can help them. Creating allies and collaborating on projects or strategic initiatives can be highly beneficial. Connecting with your peers fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, support, networking, feedback, and a sense of belonging.

Presenting Your Work to Senior Management

Presenting your work to senior management allows you to demonstrate your value, receive valuable feedback, and make a positive impression. It helps you establish relationships, influence decision-making, and contribute to the organization's goals. Embrace these opportunities to showcase your capabilities and make a lasting impact on your career and the organization as a whole.

Visibility and getting recognition for your capabilities can be challenging for women. 

The suggestions mentioned above will help you work on your career, increase your visibility, and showcase your abilities. 

I recommend dedicating Fridays to working on your career while focusing on your day job from Monday to Thursday.

I hope this article helps you in your career journey.