Learn These Useful Skills That Can Get You Promoted

By Paul Standish | Sep 29, 2008

Want to get promoted? Then get ready to work harder and open your mind to more learning. When you’re trying to get a leg up in your department, it will take a little more effort beyond the responsibilities that are given to you and the extra tasks. Employers want to see the overall potential of a person they will be grooming for a higher position and if you want that person to be you, here are some very useful skills to learn to help get you that promotion:

Advance skills in your area
Whatever department or industry you’re working in, there are basic skills and there are advanced skills. Find out what skills are required for the position you’re aiming for and make a list of what skills you have and in which areas you need to improve.

The Human Resources department can help you determine your level of competency and the type of competencies you need to learn. Your employer will offer opportunities for you to enhance the skills needed in your department, so go get the training.

There will also be company training available that may not be required for people in your department but if you think this training is necessary to get you promoted, ask to be signed up. If you have the means and the time, take classes in the evening and be sure you will have the certification to show for it.

Technical know how
What you should aim for is expertise. Find out about the technical knowledge required in the position you’re aiming for and then learn about it. Go for one or two fields where you can specialize and be considered an expert. There is a much better likelihood of getting promoted if your employer sees that you will make positive contributions to your organization.

Public Speaking and presentation
When you get promoted, you’ll usually find yourself in a job where it’s necessary for you to address groups of people, whether as a supervisor during team meetings or your department’s representative during company meetings.

If you’re aiming for a sales supervisor position, for example, you might need to make presentations to your higher-ups. Learn how to speak effectively and make your presentations knock-outs.

Language Skills
If your company has offices in other countries, you could help your promotion along by learning a new language, specifically one that is used in one of your major offices. This proficiency means that you can function effectively wherever you may be assigned. Just in case your company needs a new manager in Tokyo or Italy, they’ll know who to promote.

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