When and How to Promote Yourself: Rethinking the Great Resignation
Tech sector layoffs could be a sign that the Great Resignation wave is heading out to sea. According to layoffs.fyi, in January 2023 the tech industry saw a staggering number of layoffs. In just the last month, the tech industry laid off almost half the number of workers as it did in the entirety of 2022. Half of last year’s total in a single month. Many positions created during the height of the pandemic have become superfluous. What does that mean for employment trends like job hopping? While some workers will still take that leap of faith, others may not be so comfortable. With more people seeking employment, and others deciding to stick with their current positions, getting a new job quickly may not be so simple.
So, what do you do if you are ready for a change?
The grass isn’t always greener. If you’re happy with your current employer, it might be time to consider moving up rather than moving out. Company culture is important. If you’ve found a workplace that meets your needs, why jump ship? If you’re looking for more responsibility and better pay, it’s time to ask for a promotion.
Easier said than done, right? Promoting yourself isn’t a comfortable thing for most of us.
Here are some tips on knowing when and how to promote yourself.
Timing is important.
Have you been filling the gaps left by former co-workers? That new bit of responsibility puts you in a great position to ask for a promotion. Remember, employers prefer to hire from within. Promotion requires less time and effort than training a new employee.
Consider the company as a whole. Have there been recent financial successes? Did a current client bring more business? Are there new projects in the works? Strike while the iron is hot!
Don’t go too far out on a limb.
Take a minute to consider if the role is something that you’re right for. Just because a new position opens up, it doesn’t mean that you’re a good fit. Understand what’s in your wheelhouse and have realistic expectations. Don’t waste your time or your employer’s time. You could jeopardize your opportunities for future promotions.
Put yourself out there.
Once you have done an honest assessment of what roles you think you are ready to tackle, don’t be afraid to back it up. Set a meeting and come prepared. Outline your previous responsibilities and successes. Emphasize your familiarity with the company and your relationships with the clients.
But, what happens if you aren’t quite ready yet?
Asking for a promotion outright can be intimidating. If you know what your goals are, but aren’t ready to ask for a promotion, expressing interest and asking for guidance are good starting points. Performance reviews are a great place to get the ball rolling, provided your boss gives you positive feedback about your work. Take that opportunity to ask what more you could be doing. What skills can you hone to be considered for a higher-level position?
Our best advice for securing a promotion?
Show initiative. Your boss, team leader, or employer can’t read your mind. Demonstrate that you are interested and capable. You are your best advocate.
References
Swartz, Jon. (2023, Jan, 28). ‘It is an employer’s market’: Tech layoffs may have turned the Great Resignation into the Great Recommitment. msn.com
Indeed Editorial Team. (2022, Jul, 8). When To Ask for a Promotion (and How To Do It Effectively). indeed.com
