Advancing in Your Job: 6 Steps to the Next Level

Do you want to advance in your job? In this article, you'll find 6 steps to plan your next move: from self-awareness to a conversation with your manager.

Step 1: Know What You Want

What direction do you want to take? More responsibility? Different tasks? Leadership? A career assessment or career test can help clarify what suits you.

[Discover Your Direction](/test)

Step 2: Set Concrete Goals

Where do you want to be in 1 or 2 years? Write it down. Concrete goals make growth measurable and discussable.

Step 3: Identify Your Skill Gap

What skills do you need for your next step? And which ones do you already have? Make a list and prioritize. Focus on what is most important.

Step 4: Build Your Skills

Courses, projects, certifications — invest in your development. Take initiative. This makes you more attractive for advancement.

Step 5: Find a Mentor or Sponsor

Someone further along in their career can help you. Ask for feedback, advice, and visibility. A sponsor can nominate you for opportunities.

Step 6: Have the Conversation

Discuss your ambitions with your manager. What do you want? What do you need? When are there opportunities? Be clear and proactive.

[Start the Career Test](/test)

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my manager doesn't see any opportunities?

Ask what is needed to create opportunities. What results do you need to show? What skills? Sometimes you need to prove that you're ready first. If there really are no possibilities, consider a switch.

How often should I discuss my growth?

At least once a year in a performance review. Preferably more often: a short check-in every quarter keeps your development on the agenda.