-
Step 1
Stay positive. If you are not chosen for a promotion, don't let it get you down. How you handle not being chosen the first time can significantly improve your chances the next time the opportunity comes around. This is particularly true if you demonstrate improvement following not being selected. Good bosses recognize employees who respond well to adversity and constructive criticism.
-
Step 2
Be objective. At some point, you will be criticized on something you did. When this happens, identify and focus on what you did wrong or could have done better as opposed to what someone else did wrong. Then, to the best of your ability, acknowledge your mistake and fix it. If you do this professionally, your ability to fix a problem will be remembered rather than your propensity to create one. Good bosses are always looking for employees that can accept responsibility and fix problems.
-
Step 3
Improve. If you have the ability and willingness to improve yourself, you will go far. The reality is that most people do not change and live with whatever strengths and weaknesses they are born with. Work on your biggest weakness that you can change, and it will be noticed.
-
Step 4
Understand (and sometimes take) Management's Point of View. It usually is not hard to learn what is important to your boss. Act on it. Provide it. Management wants to promote employees that share their vision and goals.
-
Step 5
Be a leader. Speak up and voice your opinion. Don't be afraid of making a mistake. Honest efforts to play the role of leader or expert help in actually becoming a leader or expert.
