Career progression is described as any form of upward movement in your career. It is basically utilizing your skills, resources, and experience to move your career forward.

It is important to note that career progression is not one size fits all. For some it could be in form of promotions at work, for others, it is taking on more responsibilities. A few more find new challenges at work and new opportunities as notable strides in career progression.

Almost every career professional sees career progression as a means to earn more and create better professional connections.

How to fast-track your career progression

Audit Your Skills

As much as our dream is to climb up the corporate ladder and attain positive career progression, sometimes we may not be capable skill-wise. It is important to get your skills assessed regularly, so you don’t lose track of them.

By taking the time to evaluate your skills and strengths, you find out which skills are absolutely vital to your progression and those that are not, then you can focus on building the important skills needed to move your career forward.

Soft skills such as emotional intelligence, people, and communication skills are important for career progression.

Become a Pro at Office Politics

Office Politics often gets a bad rep, however, the truth is you need to have a strong relationship capital as you navigate the workplace. Your relationship with superiors and coworkers maybe what you need to get your name and hard work mentioned in the right rooms.

Office politics also helps you understand deeply how an organization operates, the temperature of its clime and how you can avoid getting burnt.

It is important to note that office politics and great relationships with co-workers do not in any way replace excellent work. It only provides an added advantage. So, remain diligent in your work, while taking time to form helpful relationships.

Stay Visible

By being visible, you ensure that people know and understand that you are available and able to take on your work-related responsibilities.

Visibility means being ready to step up and pick up the slack when the team is lagging. It can also be in form of being available to take on more responsibilities while ensuring you deliver stellar results on every task handed to you.

Visibility differs from eye service, as eye service means performing these activities only when a boss or superior is watching. Eye service often backfires in the wrong direction resulting in more of a regression than a progression.

How have you handled your career progression so far? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Until then, keep thriving!