7 Habits That Help You Stand Out at Work and Earn a Promotion
Get noticed for all the right reasons.
Making Your Value Visible
You’ve been hitting your targets, showing up, and putting in the work, yet somehow others keep landing the promotions. Hard work alone isn’t always enough to climb the corporate ladder. Often, standing out in the right ways and showing you’re ready for the next step makes all the difference.
Here are seven tips to help you showcase your value and better position yourself for your next promotion.
1. Actively Seek Feedback
Don’t wait for performance reviews, check in regularly to get feedback on your work. It helps you identify areas for improvement before they affect your career development. At the same time, it shows your bosses that you’re committed to growth, a quality they often look for when considering promotions.
2. Upskill and Increase Your Value
No matter how well you’re doing, there’s always room to grow. Make use of internal training opportunities or your SkillsFuture credit to hone your craft, strengthen your existing skills, or develop a broader skill set. Speaking to a Skills Ambassador can also help you gain clarity on which skills to focus on and which courses to pursue.
This growth mindset keeps you one step ahead and gives your boss a clear reason to support your promotion.
3. Take Initiative Beyond Your Role
Stepping up when your team needs support is a smart way to get noticed. Offer help when colleagues are overwhelmed, propose improvements, guide others, or lead small projects.
These actions show leadership and readiness for bigger responsibilities. Cultivating this reputation as a leader will make it clear to your boss that you’re prepared for a more impactful role.
4. Communicate Your Achievements Smartly
Doing great work is one thing, keeping track is another. The secret is to start a brag book where you record everything, from the results you deliver and positive feedback you receive to constructive criticism and the actions you take.
5. Share the Spotlight
Everyone likes to be recognised for their hard work, and one of the simplest ways to stand out is by taking the time to acknowledge your colleagues’ efforts.
This demonstrates that you’re a team player confident in your own leadership. It also earns you respect and makes you more visible to managers as a supportive, capable leader.
6. Build Connections That Get You Noticed
It’s easy to dismiss the value of networking, but building genuine workplace connections can open doors to new opportunities. Never underestimate the value of casual water cooler chats. They can help you get support when you need it, discover internal job openings, and put you on your manager’s radar for promotions.
Networking is also a great way to find a mentor who can guide you in your career and advocate for you. After all, promotion decisions don’t happen in a vacuum, the right connections can take you far.
7. Ask About Your Promotion
Yes, it can be awkward. But one of the biggest mistakes people make when aiming for a promotion is thinking that all they need to do is keep their head down and work hard. Instead, be proactive and have an honest conversation with your boss. Ask what it will take to earn a promotion and work together to create a realistic plan.
This gives you a timeline to work towards while giving your boss the tools to be your biggest cheerleader.
Promotions Go to Those Who Show They’re Ready
Wanting a promotion isn’t enough, you have to go after it. Start by acting like someone who deserves it, showcasing qualities that prove you’re ready for a bigger role. Don’t wait for others to recognise your work. Take control of your career and go for it. All the best!
Posted on 11/5/2025 9:00:00 AM