How to get a promotion in recruitment

As we enter a time when the workplace is flooded with millennials, the wants and needs of those millennials become important factors in the higher strategy of companies. One of the biggest wants that come with the territory is progression and growth. In fact, it’s a huge area for all workers and oftentimes the most important contributing factor when deciding to join a business. People want to know that they’re going somewhere. That there’s a path ahead and they’re not stuck in a dead-end job doing the same thing over and over again for the next twenty years. According to a Glassdoor report, 46% of millennial's left their job last year due to a lack of career growth. That’s almost half your workforce walking out the door because they have no opportunity to progress.

But on the flip side, it takes two to make a promotion happen and if you’ve got your sights set on one, here’s a few steps to follow:

Posted 13/11/2019

1. Show what you’ve got

Recruitment has often promoted consultants based solely on their billing history, and it’s become clear that that isn’t a feasible strategy. Employers want to see if you really have the skills to deserve the promotion. Showcase your skills at every possible opportunity. Take on projects that allow you to use management, team building and innovation as opposed to just your recruitment skills. Show your employer that you’re already capable of doing the job.

2. Show your success

We don’t like to brag about the things we’ve done because it’s a bit cringe worthy. Plus no one likes a show off. But when you’re heading for a promotion, it’s important to shout about the things you’ve done and the successes you’ve had. Especially if you’re in a big organisation where often the little things go unnoticed or get lost in all the noise. Send out weekly summaries detailing your work so your manager knows what you’ve done. It’s your responsibility to document this stuff and make sure it gets in front of the right people.

3. Find a mentor

People who work with mentors are generally serious about their career. And mentors mostly take on people who are serious about their career. So seek out a mentor in the organisation and discuss your ambitious to them. Your commitment to your own professional development will go a long way to impressing your leadership team and let them know that you’re serious and invested in this promotion.

4. Talk to your boss

There is the idea that you need to keep your promotion dreams secret from your boss and hide everything until it’s sealed, but that’s not really sustainable and your boss will find out. Would you rather be the one to tell them is the question? Explain your career goals and ask for honest feedback and help. They’ll be able to tell you better than anyone else the areas you need to improve and strengthen.

5. Fix up, look sharp

You have to look the part if you want to get the part. It’s an age-old piece of advice but it remains true throughout the years. Actors wear costumes so that the audience can envisage the character they’re playing, you’re doing exactly the same. Allow your bosses to see you dress for the part you want, not the part you’ve currently got.

6. Get results

No matter how hard you work, or how many late nights you put in, the results always speak louder than the words. Focus on actions and outcomes, and work hard to be associated with results. Someone who is always driving or leading results. Businesses are built on results and so being responsible for some is the best way to place yourself in line for the throne. Use the software at your disposal to show your results. Make sure you’re logging all meetings, calls, catch-ups and progress with candidates and clients. Access Recruitment CRM is built to ensure your success is constantly showcased so when your mangers pull up reports, your activity is always represented.

The Growth Playbook Part 1 is available now, packed full of advice for recruitment agencies. Discover how to grow your workforce, brand and tech.