THE SCENARIO
My efforts to rise through the ranks at my company are being stymied by my boss, whose own capabilities are questionable and who surrounds himself with "yes men," which I refuse to become. Others in the organization have recognized my capabilities, but my boss is not very supportive. How can I get around this career roadblock?
THE ADVICE
Building strong relationships and getting noticed are very important to getting ahead in your career. I recommend that you follow these steps:
LOOK BEYOND
Even though it may be hard for you, try to acknowledge your boss for his positive traits, qualities and accomplishments. Remember, if you want his support and commendation, you are going to have to do the same for him.
Indicate to your boss that you would like to build a solid working relationship. Meet and clearly state your interest in being promoted within the company. Ask if he will recommend you for a promotion. If he says "yes," then thank him, ask him for a letter of support and an updated performance review for your personnel file. If he says "no," ask what you need to do to get his support: what skills or experience you need to acquire.
If your boss still declines under any circumstances, then you need to start looking for another position inside or outside the company. .
CULTIVATE A MENTOR
Seek out a senior executive of the company to be your mentor. Meet with this individual on a regular basis and ask him or her to provide you feedback on your chances of and ways to progress. Ask him or her to share wisdom on networking, relationship building, and getting promoted. Develop a strong relationship and ask your mentor to recommend you for a more senior position.
BUILD YOUR PROFILE
Seek positions on key committees, task forces and project groups in the company or in your industry and profession. Offer to chair or be the secretary of these key groups. Send regular updates to the company executive and your boss.
GET INVOLVED
Write for your company newsletter or blog or professional or trade journals. Send copies of these articles to the company executive.
BE A SQUEAKY WHEEL
Make presentations to the company executive and other divisions in the company about your division's work and the success of your team. Take the opportunity to give presentations and speeches to industry, professional and business groups on the company, your division and its products or services. Remember to speak highly of your boss, no matter how you feel, in company and industry gatherings.
GET SOME CREDENTIALS
Take leadership and executive development seminars and courses. Send copies of certificates and course summaries to your boss, your mentor, and the human resources department. Do volunteer work for charities supported by the company and the executive. Take a leadership role and send updates to the executive and your boss.
The most effective leaders are those individuals who are self-aware and effective relationship builders. Remember this as you set out to climb the management ranks in your current company and in your career.
Bruce Sandy of http://www.brucesandy.com is a certified coach, consultant and speaker in Vancouver.