There’s always something enchanting about a new year. For many, it represents a clean slate and the chance to do what you’ve always quietly desired. A new year grants a sense of hope and newly acquired motivation. Perhaps this is the year you want to go after that promotion at work. Perhaps this is the year where you decide that as a woman, you are going to push through that glass ceiling and really excel. When you are trying to move to the next level in the workplace, developing a strategic plan is the best way to get ahead. Here are a few tips to get you geared up for what may be one of the biggest steps in your career.

Increase your visibility

Talk to your boss and let him know that you are interested in the new position available. Let it be known that you are looking for ways to expand in the company, then allow your work to reflect that. Too often, people assume that the latter will get them promoted. Contrary to popular belief, if you don’t make your intentions known, you may very well get looked over. Now is the time to become visible by stating what you want and backing it up with your actions.

Also, be sure that you receive credit for everything you do. Many women tend to work hard, then fade to the background as their male counterparts relish in the recognition for a project that relied heavily on teamwork. If you want to be seen as a viable component in your workplace, you have to let your talents and skills shine brightly. Keep track of all your accomplishments and never be afraid to accept recognition for a job well done. After all, you earned it.

Develop new skills and polish your existing ones

One way to stand out to your superiors is to attain a new skill or become an expert in the position you are aiming to reach. Obtain the full job description to learn what will be expected of you, then hone in on the areas you need to excel in to be considered. Also use this time to brush up on your soft skills such as critical thinking, time management, communication, and effectiveness. Approach your growth from a leadership standpoint and delve into what qualities and characteristics you would want to see in someone aiming to be promoted.

Put your game face on

When you enter the arena of a male-dominated workforce it is imperative that you develop a strong mental awareness in order to succeed. Stay focused on the promotion and develop a relentless, can-do attitude. Busting through the glass ceiling will prove to be no easy feat but as long as you stay determined and steadfast, it can be done. Work hard to place yourself ahead of the pack, yet remain a team player. That’s the stuff leaders are made of. Your new found grit may consist of late nights and early mornings, but your determination and savviness around the office will not go unnoticed. Own your boldness and make the decision to really go for it. When times get hard on the climb up the corporate ladder, remind yourself that you deserve to be there just as much as anyone else, and continue to grind it out.

 

Let this be the year that you really go for it, unapologetically. If a promotion is what you want, then a promotion you shall have! Just roll up your sleeves and get to work. There is nothing more awesome than creating the life that you want to lead, one step at a time.

 

Guest blogger Gloria Martinez founded womenled.org to educate people about the many women-led achievements that have shaped our world. Ms. Martinez believes that while women have made many advancements toward “shattering the glass ceiling,” there is still much to be done. It is her aim to help increase the number of women-led businesses by educating others about the topic.