We all want to take the next step in our careers, but progressing isn’t always straightforward. Competition can be strong, roles may be limited, and it can be difficult to know exactly what employers are looking for. Successful advancement usually comes down to consistently performing well, demonstrating your value, and being proactive in your development.

While every workplace is different, there are universal habits and behaviours that can significantly improve your chances of moving up. So, what are some practical tips that can help you secure a promotion at work?

How to maximise your chances of a promotion at work

Give more value

You can increase your value by improving your skills, which will help you deliver better results for the company. Attending company activities can also broaden your knowledge, skills and experience, opening you up to new opportunities in the workplace.

Pay attention to others who have been promoted

Watch closely those at your organisation who have recently been promoted. Do they share any personality traits, habits, communication styles or achievements?

Understanding what leadership looks like at your company can help you model similar behaviour and better position yourself for advancement.

Ask for feedback

Ask your manager what it would take for you to get a promotion. Their insight can help you understand exactly where you need to improve.

Be open to constructive feedback and take action on recommendations. You should regularly check in on your progress to demonstrate initiative and show your commitment to growth,

Demonstrate your leadership skills

To advance to higher-level positions, you’ll need to demonstrate leadership potential — even if you’re not currently in a leadership role.

This could involve mentoring new staff, supporting your team during busy periods, facilitating meetings or taking ownership of small projects.

Leadership is often about attitude, communication and reliability, not just your job title.

Maintain a strong work ethic

Work performance is one of the biggest factors in whether or not you get a promotion.

Demonstrate that you have mastered your current role by meeting (or exceeding) expectations and delivering consistently high-quality work.

Showing reliability, professionalism and accountability proves you’re ready to take on bigger challenges.

Motivate yourself constantly

Promotion rarely happens overnight. In some cases, it may take years to reach the next step.

Staying motivated helps you remain focused on your long-term development. Set personal goals, celebrate small wins and track your progress to remind yourself of how far you’ve come.

Be proactive

Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you — create them.

Offer to take on extra responsibilities, volunteer for new tasks, or propose projects that could benefit your team.
Being proactive shows initiative, confidence and a willingness to grow.

Build relationships

Building strong relationships with others in the workplace can help advance your career.

Networking at work helps you understand how different areas of the business operate and can foster strong support for future opportunities.

When people trust and respect you, they are more likely to recommend you for new roles.

Showcase your expertise

Don’t be afraid to showcase your expertise where appropriate.

This could be through presenting at internal meetings, sharing knowledge during team discussions, speaking at conferences, or making the most of LinkedIn by posting insights.

By demonstrating your strengths publicly, you position yourself as a subject-matter expert and make your achievements more visible to decision-makers.

Working towards a promotion takes patience, consistency and self-awareness. By continuing to grow your skills, seek feedback and demonstrate your leadership potential, you can position yourself as a valuable and reliable team member ready for greater responsibility.

Whether your next step involves moving up within your organisation or exploring new opportunities elsewhere, preparation is key to achieving your career goals.

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Article References 

Hays (n.d) ‘Design your own promotion ’, Hays, accessed 3 November 2025

Indeed (n.d) ‘How To Get Promoted at Work: 9 Effective Strategies’, Indeed, accessed 3 November 2025