Have you ever wondered why some people ascend through corporate America very quickly, while others don't? If so, this article is for you. The key to rapid advancement lies in understanding how to play—and win—the corporate game.
Think of it like Monopoly. Sure, you know the basic rules: roll the dice, move your piece, make or lose some money, and finish the game. But winning requires more than just playing; it demands strategy. You need to know which properties to buy, which to avoid, and understand the statistical probabilities of dice rolls. Intentionality is crucial.
When I received my first promotion to Senior Vice President - in a relatively short period of time - I received numerous requests for advice on climbing the corporate ladder. Here are some common scenarios I encountered:
Common Grievances Amongst Corporate Professionals
"I'm the smartest person on my team, but I keep getting passed up for promotions."
"I've applied for hundreds of positions but can’t get my foot in the door."
"I completed a mentorship program, but I'm not getting the opportunities I was promised."
Unfortunately, these individuals often had blind spots. They didn't realize that success requires more than working hard or doing a great job. You’ll need to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right amount of preparation. Specifically, here are four key attributes you’ll need to ascend:
Four Key Attributes to Ascend in Corporate America
1. Education:
It doesn't always mean a degree. There are certification programs, webinars, books, blogs, YouTube videos, and more. In this day and age, there are no excuses for not gaining knowledge.
2. Connections:
Remember that persistent, low-level employee who annoyed you when he first started? Spoiler alert—he will become an executive. Networking is critical, and you may find yourself reaching out to him on LinkedIn in a few years.
3. Emotional Intelligence:
Corporate life isn't always rainbows and lollipops. Show that you can handle even the most frustrating scenarios with grace.
4. Resilience:
My partner recently asked me a philosophical question, “How many no’s does it take to get to a yes?” After a big eye roll lol, I admitted that I didn’t know. The point is, you need the grit to endure rejections and stay motivated until you get that yes.
The list of necessary skills is long and their applications are endless. You'll need skills for resumes, cover letters, social networking, applications, interviews, salary negotiations, 30-60-90 plans, team dinners, town halls, corporate travel, performance reviews, volunteer events, affinity groups, professional photos, job transfers, and more.
Indeed, succeeding in corporate America requires a variety of skills and it’s critical to be intentional about each aspect of your career. Fortunately, I’m here to help! I’d love to provide support as you navigate those blind spots and climb the corporate ladder like you've always wanted.
Have you hit a ceiling on your way up the corporate ladder? Let me know where, and I’ll share how I’ve handled that roadblock in the past.
Are you nervous about something new, like negotiating a raise or building a team? I’ve been there before, and I look forward to guiding you through it. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it.
Get ready to reach the top, and I'll be there to welcome you with open arms.