5 Tips to Climbing the Corporate Ladder

I’m a straight shooter. However, it’s always best to be clear no one is in the water before diving in. There’s no easy way to say this, but entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. Gasps and clutches invisible pearls. It not being for everybody is O-K-A-Y! The fact of the matter is, as an entrepreneur you need “business besties“ in corporate America.

I’m a straight shooter. However, it’s always best to be clear no one is in the water before diving in. There’s no easy way to say this, but entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. Gasps and clutches invisible pearls. It is not being for everybody is O-K-A-Y! The fact of the matter is, as an entrepreneur you need “business besties“ in corporate America.

Business Besties?

These “business besties” assist entrepreneurs in growth and expansion. Like peanut butter and jelly - entrepreneurs and corporate professionals go together. Not only can corporate professionals introduce entrepreneurs to invaluable resources and connections within their organization or industry; but, also inform when opportunities are coming available. Everyone has a journey. Each journey has value. If your journey involves climbing the corporate ladder and developing your professional career, keep reading.

Before I became an entrepreneur, I worked in corporate America for over 6 years. In one year I received three promotions. It wasn’t by happenstance or luck either. I was strategic and leveraged my value using what I had at the time. While in an interview on #NationalBossDay with Harold T. Fisher for WHUR 96.3 FM, we discussed 5 of my tips to climbing the corporate ladder. Don’t forget as you climb, lift others. 

“It’s hard to get to a destination you haven’t yet chosen.” - Alechia Reese

Tip #1

Be clear on your desired career role, path, and even income.

You don’t have to know your full desired trajectory. However, you will need to decide what your ultimate goal is. When you’re clear on your destination, you become intentional with your actions. 

“It’s hard to be something you don’t know exists and can’t see.” - Alechia Reese

Tip #2

Know your role. In and out of your company.

Whether or not you have a college degree, or plan to go back to school. You are forever a student. Leveraging your value is best accomplished when you know your role.

How can you attain positions when you ignore those who hold them?

Do your research, educate yourself on the industry trends, and know the leaders in your industry.

Tip #3

Schedule meetings with prominent industry and organizational leaders.

Did you know?

Only about 5% of minority women schedule and meet with executives in their organizations.

I’m pretty sure the first thing you probably asked was, “And why would they want to meet with me?” The simple answer is no matter their position or successes in life, you have something of value you can use to connect with. Everyone needs something. Something of value. You see where I’m going with this yet?

Everyone has value. Leverage your value to secure meetings with individuals in positions you desire to hold - in and outside of your organization. You then build those relationships by leading with your value.

“Life is a relationship game. To win at it you must build mutually beneficial relationships.” - Alechia Reese

Tip #4

Opt-in … for high visibility projects, employer resource groups, and impactful programs.

Keep in mind your specific work culture when highlighting your wins. You want to be sure your highlights matter to your company or industry. Your win isn’t as effective if you celebrate organizing the department’s filing systems when you’re measured on the number of sales. trust you when you opt-in.

After you’ve opted in, remember one key fact. Long gone are the days when simply putting your head down to just “do the work” was an effective method for growth. It’s necessary to also highlight your wins.

BONUS:

Keep in mind your specific work culture when highlighting your wins. You want to be sure your highlights matter to your company or industry. Your win isn’t as effective if you celebrate organizing the department’s filing systems when you’re measured on number of sales.

So, shine baby shine, opt in, then highlight your wins!

Tip #5

Don’t be afraid to barter!

It’s not just about dollars and cents. Yes, you’re collecting a check, but also barter your time for advanced level trainings, certifications, and learning retreats.

#thankmelater

These 5 tips are easily applicable at every stage of your emerging corporate journey as well. No matter your chosen industry, career, or occupation make them your own.

Originally posted on: rglpgroup.com