How to Climb the Corporate Ladder

Climb the Corporate Ladder

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Ascending the corporate ladder takes more than just working longer, harder and smarter. To reach the higher rungs, you must take strategic steps to be noticed - and valued - so someone at the top will reach down and help pull you up.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Networking skills
Communication skills
Desire to learn

Step1

Go where the growth is, even if that means making a lateral move. The old saying that a rising tide lifts all ships still applies.

Step2

Build a good network within the company so you'll be alerted of openings before they're announced. Rumors of reorganizations usually seep out early. Pay attention to them and follow up.

Step3

Interact with managers other than your direct supervisors. The more people are aware of your skills, the better.

Step4

Take risks. Business columnist Bob Rosner calls volunteering for difficult assignments "the express lane to corporate success." But beware of suicide missions. Analyze whether a challenging assignment is merely difficult or probably impossible.

Step5

Concentrate on making your immediate supervisor look good. Carry a weak boss on your shoulders if necessary and don't complain about it. Over time, the truth about your contributions will come out.

Step6

Work with a career counselor to maximize your communication skills and create effective strategy.

Step7

Keep learning. Whether it's a two-day seminar or a two-year master of business arts program, explore educational opportunities that will increase your skills.

Tips & Warnings

Before enrolling in an educational program, check with your human resources department to see if the company will pay part (or all) of your tuition.
Work on your professional profile outside the company. Write for industry publications and speak at professional meetings and industry conferences. Be available to the business press for quotes.
Don't bury bad news. Bosses hate unpleasant surprises. Be open about a problem, but have a carefully thought-out plan ready to solve it.