This one is going to be a short post, but I felt that it was an important topic to address since I get questioned about it quite regularly.  

I am often approached by colleagues inside and outside of our team asking what is the best way to get a promotion or get noticed at work.  While there are a lot of steps in the process which vary by industry, years of experience and the role you are seeking, there is one simple answer that I always give as the first step……Excel in the role you are currently in!!!

If you are not exceeding expectations in your current role, why would anyone assume that you would be able to excel in a more senior role.  It just isn’t a reasonable expectation.

I can often see the disappointment in people’s eyes when I share this answer.  I think people are often looking for that easy button or silver bullet to getting ahead.  In my nearly 30 year career, I have yet to find one.

While excelling in your current role is critically important, exceeding your boss’ expectations does not absolutely guarantee that you will get ahead. That being said, not succeeding in your current role will at best keep you from getting promoted and at worst get you fired.

This is why it is always a red flag to me when I am interviewing people and they are asking about what the “next job” is after the one they are applying for.  The best thing that anyone can do is to be so good they cannot ignore you in the current role that you are in.  If your current company doesn’t notice you and give you more opportunity, in almost all cases, someone on the outside will.  It is important not to be too impatient, but also not to stick around forever at a place where you are not rewarded for your success.

Don’t get caught up on the next job.  Focus on the one you have right now, work hard and the next one will present itself in due time. There is simply no short cut to true success.