Guest Blog - Climbing the Corporate Ladder - Dilan Perera

Too many people bounce through their career without an effective roadmap. Others expect promotions in exchange for years on the job and believe a “big break” will simply land in their lap. The reality is, in order to get where you want to be, you need to have a success strategy. After all, failing to plan is planning to fail.

Here are the things that have contributed towards my progression through the ranks over the last 15 years.

1. Build Your Blueprint

It’s critical you have a clear view of what you want to do, where you want to arrive at the pinnacle of your career and the interim steps required to get there. Of course, make adjustments as you go, but a robust blueprint will help you to position yourself in the right places at the right times. Believe me, seizing progression opportunities as they present themselves is much more about preparation and foresight than good fortune!

2. Attitude is Altitude

Companies look for people who fit their existing culture and can also improve it for the better. This starts with how you “show up” on a daily basis. It’s important to operate with integrity, create value for others and foster a “can do, will do” attitude. This will make you stand out in the crowd - and senior stakeholders will certainly recognise and appreciate it. Be at your brilliant best during periods of high change and make a conscious effort to help the organisation thrive during challenging times. Remember, many careers are expedited during these periods.

3. Soar Above Your Job Description

Become an invaluable resource for the business. Build a reputation around collaboration and bringing out the best in others. Don’t just put in your contracted hours, always seek to contribute more. Work harder AND smarter. Try to accelerate the progress of your direct manager (and other senior leaders) at every chance you get. Treat every task with urgency and volunteer for high-visibility projects. Be known as the “go-to” or “get-it-done” person. Be an initiator, not just an executor. These behaviours are all pivotal in your ascent to the senior ranks, but don't forget, you must be consistently outperforming in your current role before you earn the right to be promoted.

4. Invest in Yourself

If you don’t invest in yourself, why would anyone else? It’s essential you schedule regular time to read, study and attend industry conferences. Become an expert and thought leader in your field. Hone your skills and find your “X factor” (this is the single greatest asset that sets you apart from everybody else!). Whenever an opportunity arises, back yourself to lead with your X factor and make a lasting impression. This may sound trivial, but it’s also important to “dress for success” by presenting yourself for the position you want, not the one you have. In essence, think and act one level above. Raise your game in everything you do.

5. Develop Your Personal Brand

Find innovative ways (that don’t come across as “me, me, me”!) to keep your boss and other key stakeholders informed of your achievements. This will help you get recognised for contributing to the company’s success beyond your own responsibilities. Enhance your personal brand by playing to your strengths and showcasing thought leadership (both internally and externally) on topics where you are the subject matter expert. The more raving fans you create, the closer you will get to climbing the next rung of the corporate ladder.

Progress is a Process

Your next promotion will come when three critical elements converge: outperformance in your current role, unquestionable value delivered to your organisation and the positive perception of your readiness, held by those that matter. It’s up to you to get yourself in this position as quickly as possible.

I recommend surrounding yourself with fantastic internal leaders who understand you and are passionate about your development. I also suggest working with an external mentor or executive coach who could give you objective and constructive guidance without any conflict of interest.

Like most things in business and in life, climbing the corporate ladder is a process underpinned by a purposeful plan. Your task is to control the inputs and, in doing so, edge ever closer to realising your ambitions.

What has been the most important factor in your career progression?

 About the Author: Dilan Perera is a senior business leader who leverages his passion for people development and extensive experience within business transformation, operations, marketing and innovation to create winning cultures that drive strong commercial growth.