When I look back on my time in the Marine Corps, being selected for promotion was always a goal. I was constantly searching for more—more responsibility, more opportunities, more insight into what was happening and how I could help the people or organization move forward. Along the way, I gained valuable experience on who gets promoted and why. This has led to me frequently answering a common question during site visits with clients: How do you get promoted?
Here are my five recommendations on how to get promoted fast at work:
1. Excel Where You Are
Top performers are hard to ignore. Before you can move up, you need to master your current role. Deliver high-quality work, meet deadlines, exceed expectations, demonstrate reliability, and take ownership of your responsibilities. Treat every task—no matter how small—as an opportunity to showcase your capabilities within the organization.
2. Build a Strong Network
Cultivate relationships with colleagues, managers, clients, and senior leaders. Be someone people enjoy working with and trust. Often, you are seen as either an asset or an obstacle. Assets tend to be promoted, while obstacles are avoided.
3. Embody Leadership Qualities
Even if you are not currently in a formal leadership position, act like a leader. Show confidence, stay positive under pressure, and inspire others with your work ethic and attitude. People will naturally start to see you as leadership material. Leaders think about the bigger picture and prioritize the success of the team over individual gains.
4. Develop the Skills for the Next Role
Look at the job description or key responsibilities of the role you want and start preparing now. Whether it’s leadership, technical expertise, education, or communication, begin building those skills. Take courses, attend workshops, and pay close attention to those in the organization who are in the role you want. Study what sets them apart.
5. Be a Problem-Solver
Leaders promote individuals who bring solutions, not complaints. Identify challenges in your team or company and offer practical, actionable ideas to address them. Taking ownership of your role, recognizing problems, and providing solutions is a sought-after trait.
When striving for a promotion, focus on what you can control—yourself. Stay consistent, stay positive, and prove every day that you are the right person for the job.
