Dear Witty: Overlooke
Dear Witty,
I have been an engineering manager for many years now and excelled in many projects but overlooked for promotion. I am a quiet individual who doesn't self-promote or ask for what I want. What advice can you give me to get to the next level?
- Overlooked
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Dear Overlooked,
You are, admittedly, quiet and do not self promote, nor do you ask for what you want. While you don’t have to turn into a networking expert overnight, practicing self-advocacy is going to help you get to the next level at work.
What do you need or want?
First, get clear on your needs. When you say promotion—do you have a specific role in mind? Do you want more money, a different title, prestige, or is a promotion just the natural progression you expect at work? What kind of recognition or responsibility are you looking for? While you ponder your needs, consider this question as well: does a promotion within your division sound better than moving into another role laterally or a similar role at another organization? This could open up a world of opportunities for you.
Speak your needs
The squeaky wheel gets the grease—sorry, had to say it. If a wheel is squeaky, it’s an indicator that it needs some TLC. If someone speaks up about a want or need, they are likely to either get what they want, or at least be heard, and kept in mind when a potential matching opportunity arises.
As a manager, it is likely you have had 1-on-1 meetings with your direct reports where you might provide feedback or advice and discuss their professional goals with them. Are you willing to have these conversations with your manager or perhaps, someone else (a mentor, colleague or previous team mate from a past project) who is able to help you figure out your career path at work? Even if you just ask them for advice on how they have navigated a promotion, anything is a good starting point. If you have a mentor program at work, it might be a great way to discuss opportunities for advancements at your current workplace.
Networking: Branching out
When people get to know you, it builds trust. Networking can be dreadful, but it can also be fun, rewarding, and a nice way to learn about other people, roles, organizations or industries. There are some easier ways to “naturally” network, even during a global pandemic. Are there groups on Meetup that match your career interests? Are there any special interest groups sponsored by your organization? If you’re not sure, ask around (if you have someone in talent development or HR, that might be your best bet). Joining these groups can be a great way to meet new people and talk to them about the workplace and beyond. Ask them what their goals are at work (and outside of work) and they will likely ask about yours. Maybe they know of an opportunity you weren’t aware of.
There are many opportunities to naturally network outside of work as well. You can join a professional development organization that matches your skillset or current industry. Many now have virtual meetups or events. Depending on your involvement, you can choose to meet people through volunteering, offering your skills as a speaker or mentor, or becoming a mentee yourself. If you’re game, you could even become a board member! The opportunities are endless.
Find an advocate
If you’ve excelled in multiple projects, it is likely someone has noticed your efforts. It’s just a matter of figuring out who can be an advocate for you in your workplace. Was there someone you felt comfortable speaking with or meeting up with during or after a project? Perhaps someone who is happy to speak your name for open roles? Perhaps someone on a hiring committee internally? Someone who is regularly in rooms you might not be in?
If you find it difficult to find (or speak to) that person initially, practice by speaking your needs to friends, family, or a therapist. Sometimes the most difficult part is speaking up about what you want and need.
Set expectations
It will likely take some time (depending on availability for promotions within your organization or if you decide on a job hunt), but know your efforts will not be in vain.
If this list sounds exhausting…we hear you. Just make one move and see where it gets you. So long as you’ve defined your needs/goals and are willing to talk about them, you’re on the right track. Good luck!
In solidarity,
WITTY
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