By Stacey Aggabao and Kevin Clougherty
Navigating the path to career advancement within your own organization requires a blend of strategic thinking, proactive behavior, and effective communication. To grow and promote yourself internally, start by identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities within your company. This involves not only staying informed about new projects and initiatives but also seeking out roles or responsibilities that align with your career goals. Regularly engage in conversations with your manager or mentors/sponsors about your aspirations and express your interest in taking on new challenges. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to your role and your willingness to contribute to the organization’s success.
Effective self-promotion is another key component of internal career growth. It’s important to strike a balance between confidently communicating your accomplishments and maintaining a collaborative attitude. Keep detailed records of your achievements and the impact they’ve had on your team or the organization. Use regular performance reviews or one-on-one meetings as opportunities to discuss these accomplishments with your manager, focusing on how your contributions align with the company’s goals. By framing your successes in terms of their benefit to the organization, you enhance your visibility without coming across as boastful.
In addition, set up routine meetings with your manager to discuss your career goals. Make sure to clearly communicate the intent of the meeting in advance and have it outside of your normal one-one meeting. During that time, provide examples of items that you have worked on outside your normal job duties as well as your career goals. Ask your manager if there are any “stretch” projects that they can assign to you in the near future to align with organization’s strategic goals as well as your career goals.
Networking within your organization plays a crucial role in career development. Building and nurturing relationships with colleagues across different departments can provide valuable insights into the company’s broader objectives and open doors to new opportunities. Participate in cross-functional projects, attend company events, and engage with team members beyond your immediate circle. These interactions not only broaden your influence but also help you stay informed about upcoming opportunities and organizational changes that could impact your career. Presence and visibility provides a great pathway and exposure to your next opportunity.
Check the internal job board routinely at your organizations in areas that you are striving for growth such as the “management” or “executive” section. Review job descriptions and roles that you are attractive to for your internal promotion. Some pathways of growth may not always have the traditional trajectory. If you find a job posted that you have interest in, find others in the organization with that title and reach out for an informal mentorship or connection to understand their path to that position.
Large and small healthcare organizations have their benefits and challenges. In a large organization, lots of opportunities may exist with significant internal and external competition. Larger organizations may require relocation and changing locations in order to move up in the organization. Smaller organizations may have limitations since only one position that someone may strive for exists, and that position may not be vacant for years. Occasionally, new job descriptions are created for the right person for growth, but this appears to be happening less as more organizations are standardizing jobs for efficiencies.
Finally, aligning your career goals with the organization’s strategic objectives can significantly boost your advancement prospects. Understanding the company’s long-term vision and identifying how your skills and aspirations align with this vision can position you as a valuable asset. Regularly reassess your career goals and seek feedback to ensure you are on track. By demonstrating that your personal growth contributes to the organization’s success, you enhance your chances of securing promotions and achieving long-term career satisfaction.
