Q&A Friday – Starting your climb to the top!

Q&A Video Friday…Minus the Video!

This morning I awoke with a massive headache and am writing this heavily medicated; I thought it best not to be on video in my particular state! 

I seem to be getting a lot of people asking one particular question, and what an important question it is! 

Q.        What do you recommend I do as an entry level professional to begin working my way up through the ranks?

A.        While this may seem like a daunting task to undertake.  If you realize that it is not always the big leaps you take, but the series of small steps that can get you the furthest, the following tips will get you well on your way;

• Don’t be intimidated.  People often feel embarrassed of their entry level positions and feel awkward when someone asks them what the do.  DON’T BE!  Everyone starts somewhere, and if you will allow me a cliché moment; every cog in the wheel is essential to the running of a business.  Be proud of what you contribute, and your confidence will exude!  You are no different than the person in the cubicle down the way in a “higher up” position.  Simply just in a different place in your journey!

• Welcome learning opportunities.  Mastering the current position you are in is essential to success, but remember to keep your eyes on the prize!  If your company is having a training session, ask if you can attend.  If that is not possible, ask if you can receive a copy of the training materials to review on your own time.  When you find work is a little slow, take that chance to explore your company’s software programs used.  Being knowledgeable will definitely impress the next time someone has to show you how to do something and YOU are already in the know!  Most importantly, LISTEN, LISTEN, and LISTEN!  When, for example, people ask work related questions around you, be sure to listen to the response, you can learn quite a bit with an open ear!

• Volunteer often.  It is bound to happen, more work than staff!  When it does, be the first to volunteer to lend a helping hand.  The more exposure to the different positions you can get, the easier it will be to transition you into a different position in your manager’s eyes.

• Make your intentions known.  If you are say a Receptionist, File Clerk or some other type of entry level team member, sit down at an appropriate moment with your manager and let them know that you would like to work your way up to “Position X”.  Ask what steps they would advise you start taking. People in general enjoy helping others succeed, making someone feel as if they are a mentor means you have another person pushing for your success!  Not only will you get some sound advice, but you are letting others know your intentions, goals and ambitions and you will be a logical consideration when an opportunity presents itself. 

• Be ready to jump.  When someone is let-go or leaves the company, don’t assume you will automatically offered their position.  Make sure you tell the powers that be that you would like to be considered for the position AND tell them all the reasons why you would be right for the opening.  As an extra incentive to give you a shot, offer to handle your current position while you train for the next, allowing them time to find your replacement!

Of all the tips I just gave you, it is so important to remember this is a marathon, not a sprint.  All great careers are built out of strategic moves, actions with intentions and a commitment to excellence in your line of work.

Happy Climbing!

Jennifer