5 Questions to Ask Yourself (and How to Get Promoted)

Being mid-career can be a time of immense potential...and immense frustration.

From the outside looking in, you're doing great but moving up feels hard. It’s annoying. It’s infuriating. It’s… fixable. 

So what now? Well now, I’m going to give you 5 common questions you might be asking yourself and uncover the steps you can take to finally get that promotion and/or raise that you deserve.

Challenge 1: "Why aren’t people acknowledging my great work?"

🚩 The Issue: You nailed that presentation, but your boss only praises your other colleague. You constantly share brilliant ideas in meetings, but they seem to go in one ear and out the other. Meanwhile, less experienced team members are getting tapped for exciting new projects. It feels like no one notices your hard work or your potential.

✅ The Solution:

1. Document your wins: Start a "Wins" file (or Brag Folder as I call mine) where you keep track of your accomplishments, positive feedback, and any metrics that demonstrate your impact, including dates. Create an email folder where you file away emails that recognize your great work. Trust me. It’s hard to remember all the kudos you’ve gotten when it comes time to write up your part of your performance review.  

2. Speak up: Make a point to share your ideas in meetings, even if you feel nervous. Practice beforehand (like in front of a mirror), and be prepared to back up your suggestions with data or research. 

3. Seek out opportunities: Volunteer for high-profile projects or tasks that will give you more visibility.

4. Network internally: Build relationships with people in other departments and at higher levels of the organization. Check to see what, if any, networking groups are at your current employer. 

5. Schedule regular check-ins with your boss: Discuss your career goals and ask for specific feedback on how you can improve.

Challenge 2: "How can I be assertive without being labeled 'difficult'?"

🚩 The Issue: You hesitate to speak up in meetings, worried that you'll be seen as pushy or aggressive. But when you do voice your opinion, it's often dismissed or talked over. You want to be respected as a leader, but you're not sure how to balance confidence with likability (and let’s be honest, it’s ridiculous that you even have to consider that balance).

✅ The Solution:

1. Practice assertiveness: Learn how to communicate your ideas clearly and directly, without being overly aggressive or apologetic.

2. Use "I" statements: Instead of saying "You're wrong," try "I see it differently because..."

3. Build your confidence: Take a public speaking course or join local clubs/organizations.

4. Seek out feedback: Ask a trusted colleague or mentor to give you honest feedback on your communication style.

5. Stand your ground: Don't back down when you know you're right.

Challenge 3: "Can I have a successful career and a life outside of work?"

🚩The Issue: Your to-do list is never-ending. You're constantly juggling work deadlines, family commitments, and personal needs, and it feels like something always has to give or be sacrificed. You worry that focusing on your career will mean (has meant) sacrificing your personal life, or vice versa.

✅ The Solution:

1. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Turn off your work email notifications after hours and on weekends because if you allow it the first time, they will have the idea that you’re always available.

2. Learn to say no: You don't have to say yes to every request. Politely decline tasks that aren't a priority or that you don't have time for. If it makes it easier for you, suggest another solution to the issue.

3. Delegate: If you have the option, delegate tasks to others on your team or at home.

4. Schedule time for yourself: Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you recharge. Having time for yourself makes a difference, I promise you.

5. Communicate with your support system: Talk to your partner, family, or friends about your challenges and ask for their support.

Challenge 4: "Is it harder for women to get promoted?"

🚩 The Issue: You look around the conference room and realize you're one of the few women at your level. It seems like men are getting promoted faster, even if they don't have your experience or qualifications. You wonder if there are hidden barriers holding you back.

✅ The Solution:

1. Find a mentor: Seek out a senior female leader who can offer guidance, mentorship, sponsorship, and support.

2. Join a women's networking group: Connect with other women in your industry who are facing similar challenges.

3. Speak up about inequality: If you witness or experience gender bias, don't be afraid to speak up.

4. Advocate for yourself: Don't wait to be recognized for your accomplishments. Speak up about your successes and ask for what you deserve.

5. Support other women: Be a mentor or sponsor to other women in your organization.

Challenge 5: "Am I really good enough?"

🚩 The Issue: You get a big project, but instead of feeling excited, you're paralyzed by self-doubt. You worry that you'll mess up, that you're not smart enough, or that you're just lucky to be where you are. You start to second-guess your every decision, and it's hard to see your own accomplishments.

✅ The Solution:

1. Challenge your negative thoughts: When you have a negative thought about yourself, ask yourself if it's really true based on facts.

2. Focus on your strengths: Make a list of your skills and accomplishments (from your “Wins” file.) Refer to it when you're feeling down.

3. Talk to someone you trust: Share your feelings of self-doubt with a friend, family member, therapist, or career coach. Find your cheerleader and lean on them, when needed.

4. Practice self-compassion and grace: Be kind to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes and has moments of self-doubt and insecurity.

5. Celebrate your successes: Don't downplay your accomplishments. Take the time to acknowledge and appreciate your hard work. 

Which of these questions resonate with you the most? Are you ready to overcome them?

By recognizing the challenges you're facing, finding ways to deal with them, and building a strong support system, you can overcome obstacles, move up in your career, and reach your full potential. 

You're not alone in this, and there are people and resources out there to help you, like me. *wink*

You got this!

P.S.

Would you like to explore how I can support your career goals? I offer a free 20-minute consultation to answer your questions and discuss how my services can help you achieve your objectives. To get a better idea of the topics we might cover, you can check out common questions, view my career packages, and book a session through this link.