In the past, company loyalty and the ability to assume increasing job responsibility usually ensured advancement within an organization. While the reasons for seeking advancement (the desire for a better-paying position, more prestige, and job satisfaction) have not changed, the qualifications for career advancement have. In today’s business environment, climbing the corporate ladder requires packaging and marketing yourself. To be promoted within your company or to be considered for employment with another company, it is wise to improve your skills continually. By taking workshops and seminars or enrolling in community college courses, you can keep up with the changing technology in your industry. Networking with people in your business or community can help you find a new job. Most jobs are filled through personal contacts, proving that who you know can be important.

A list of your accomplishments on the job can reveal your strengths and weaknesses. Setting goals for improvement helps to increase your self-confidence.

Be sure to recognize the signs of job dissatisfaction. If you are feeling unhappy in your job, it may be time to move to another position or company.

Assignment Are you prepared to climb the corporate ladder? Do a selfassessment by analyzing the following areas and summarize the results in a two-page report.

1. Skills

● What are your most valuable skills?

● What skills do you lack?

● Describe your plan for acquiring new skills and improving your existing skills.

2. Networking

● How effective are you at using a mentor?

● Are you a member of a professional organization?

● In which community, civic, or church groups are you participating?

● Whom have you added to your contact list in the last six weeks?

3. Accomplishments

● What achievements have you reached in your job?

● What would you like to accomplish? What will it take for you to reach your goal?

4. Promotion or new job

● What is your likelihood for getting a promotion?

● Are you ready for a change? What are you doing or willing to do to find another job?