So you noticed
new job board posting on your way back from lunch. They finally decided to fill assistant manager spot in your department! Trouble is, you've only been in your current position for about eight months. There's also been some talk of hiring from outside. Should you go for it anyway? Here are some ways to tell if it's time to power up corporate ladder.1. You're currently one notch lower than assistant manager. If your job title includes word Senior, then you've likely earned some recognition at your place of employment. Is assistant manager next step up? Why not give it a shot? The worst thing that can happen is that you don't get job... and hey, there's always next time. When you go for gold, people will realize you're quite a gem. Start getting noticed for your ambition and drive!
2. A large portion of department responsibilities falls into your lap. Don't underestimate your own worth. If you're currently doing work of two or more people and doing it well, then you should be compensated for it. Is it possible you were overlooked? Don't feel slighted. Negativity holds us back from getting where we want to be. Instead, take a strategic leap forward. Sometimes people get so wrapped up in their own issues, they fail to see what's before their eyes. You know job like back of your hand, and that's far more than a stranger off street knows. Speak up and make your capabilities known!
3. Your manager consistently looks to you for solutions. If you're playing problem-solver at office, that's a pretty good sign that people value your input. What better indicator of your ability is there than a boss who seeks you out for answers? Does your supervisor come in from meetings and immediately drag you away for a private pow-wow? You've already got a foot in door! Now get rest of yourself behind that desk in corner office for a view of skyline!
4. Your manager confides in you regularly. Are you Big Cahuna's main confidante? Good office chemistry is hard to come by. If your boss trusts you with everything from top-secret office rumors to "what to do with that belligerant marketing coordinator," to fight he had with his wife last night, this speaks volumes about his opinion of you. Sounds like you've very naturally clicked into Position 2 in chain of command. Time to lock in to more money and an official manager status on paper.
5. You're well-known and respected among your colleagues. Do people smile and greet you by name when you walk into a group setting? Do managers of other departments frequently solicit your opinion? When boss is away, do your peers appoint you to act in his absence? Being office social butterfly is one thing. To know that your fellow employees admire and respect you for job you do is another. One of biggest indicators you're ready for a promotion is if your boss's boss has faith in your ability. Having a support system in place works in your favor and can be 'in' you need to get ahead.
