Being ‘promotable’ is a good way to summarize and package all of our resolutions in the new year, isn’t it? Afterall, being sharper, more fit, happier, and even more spiritually engaged will result in the kind of performance, relationships and image to others that is hard to resist. Here are my recommendations on a few resolutions to improve your promotability, regardless of your industry.
“I will manage my energy more effectively to include sleep, food and exercise.”
Sleep is the secret weapon that we don’t talk about enough. When you are well rested, everything is easier the next day, and your brain works at its best cognitively and socially. You can radiate more positivity and eagerness to solve problems. Advice on food and exercise is out there for the taking. Increase exercise and activity and reduce sugar, alcohol, and empty calories for starters. You will look better, and your boss and colleagues will wonder why.
“In my professional performance, I will search for what really works, not what I think works.”
We all get trained on our jobs initially, and as time passes, we make it into a combination of what the boss expects and what we think is necessary, in the order we think it should be done, or perhaps, gotten away with. How about asking bosses and stakeholders, regularly, but not too often to be annoying, “What are the most important things I can do to add value in my work?” You might find out that some key activities you’ve done for years are things no one cares about. Or you may find that the outcomes expected of you have changed. By simply asking this question, you’ll be seen as industrious and responsible.
“I will talk to my boss about my career goals, whether or not I am invited to do so.”
This takes courage, but it is truly a case of ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’. Even if what you gain is insight, instead of a promotion. A simple “I am interested in advancing my career and I’d appreciate any insight you could provide.’ Will do the trick. January is performance review time for many industries and can offer opportunities to engage. If not, any one on one meeting will do if the your boss is in a neutral to good mood. Best case is that you will gain some insight on possibilities and what it takes to advance. Worst case? Reluctance to talk about it, dismissal of the subject or even a statement like ‘you’ll never advance here’ is valuable in and of itself, allowing you to plan a departure to greener pastures. Either way, you’ll be perceived as having a pulse and ambition, not bad things.
“I will embrace a growth mindset, in thought and action.”
In thought this means not letting the frustration of learning new things discourage you. It means attempting to develop new skills and capabilities. In action, the most practical current tactic is to figure out what Artificial Intelligence can and will do to your own discipline and start learning how to use the tools effectively. Insight on a hot topic is always valuable: your knowledge in this subject will make you stand out, demonstrating you take initiative and don’t need prompting to learn.
“I will seek inspiration and add micro-learning to my social media habit.”
I criticize social media as much as anyone, but it is not all bad. Whether one uses Facebook, Instagram, ‘X’ or any of the emerging platforms, there are very positive people to follow, who break up the doom scrolling and toxic exchanges. Almost anyone who has a written a self-help book is present on most popular social platforms, from business leaders to spiritual gurus. Follow them along with the sports teams you like or the myriad of other influencers vying for your attention. You’ll get practical advice along with all that other emotional manipulation. Simply finding those who will inspire you will result in the algorithm sending you more of such people to sample. Listen to their podcasts for even more learning. Recommend them to friends and colleagues and you’ll be seen as thoughtful, helpful and resourceful.
“I will refrain from negativity and drama on any discoverable social platforms, especially those used for job search, like Linkedin.”
This should be common sense by now, but, as we know, that quality has never been widespread. Evidence is ample as we see colleagues and acquaintances turn LinkedIn into their personal place to vent or express political opinions. Those experiencing layoffs can now be seen telling their stories on Linkedin, filled with drama and implied sinister motives of the decision makers. Save that for your best friends and family over a cocktail or coffee. Don’t throw up in public. It’s not going to help you. Just as we like leaders to praise in public, criticize in private, we should practice the same regarding our careers. Stay classy, and you’ll be seen as classy.
“I will separate myself from the herd!”
It’s very easy to fall into ‘lowest common denominator’ behavior. ‘If everyone is doing it, it must be ok’, is a timeless principle of mediocrity. If everyone pushes the limit on when to arrive or leave the office, how far they can push casual dress (even when working remotely), or any other element of professionalism, most humans go with the flow. Not you, however. This year you will kick the dress code up a notch, occasionally perhaps even wear a sport coat for men or classy equivalent for women. You will give away those dockers and golf shirts from the mid-00’s that don’t fit anymore and leave the yoga pants for yoga. You’ll be around when needed and not risk the alternative. You’ll be seen as the one that stands out by simply wearing clothes that are a bit nicer and fit better than everyone else and being generally a bit more available and professional.
There you have 7 solid resolutions, easily actionable, that cost nothing to very little, that will make you more promotable in 2025. I wish you a safe, successful and healthy year ahead!
