Although there are exceptions (I could certainly name a few), most job seekers and employees seek positions with promotion potential. That is, they look for or transition into positions, which might serve as a platform from which they can climb the corporate ladder. Yet, as one commentator put it, “landing your boss’ job,” takes more than vision or finding a position with promotion potential. It requires a specific personality and skill set as well as the understanding that being “second in command” does not in itself typically make you qualified to step into your boss’ shoes.
Wall Street Journal contributor, Dennis Nishi, recently penned an article called Landing the Boss’ Job, which looks at what it takes to land your boss’ job. As I mention above, Nishi concludes, “Being next in line doesn’t guarantee you’ll be promoted,” however, adds, “there are a few things you can do to improve your chances.” What are these “things”?
- Expand your skill set and take on additional responsibilities. Nishi observes, “Many would-be successors are actually underqualified.” Therefore, it is important that you gain those requisite qualifications you may be lacking and round-out your skill set. Nishi suggests that employees engage their bosses and “inquire about your strengths and weaknesses”—doing so could help you “fill knowledge gaps with some professional development.” In addition to this, Nishi recommends that would-be bosses ask for additional work for the purpose of “building experience” that “allows you to manage projects from beginning to end.” Although you may have experience governing a process, you may not have the managerial and project management skills executives look for in a manager.
- Share your career aspirations. An important first step, Nishi says, is sharing your career aspirations with your boss: “A recommendation from your boss is the best way to land a promotion.” However, Nishi adds that caveat that your disclosure of your intent to climb the corporate ladder should not lead your boss to feel threatened. Or, as Nishi puts it, “just don’t sound like you’re planning a coup.”
- Establish yourself as a leader. Another important step, asserts Nishi, is networking within your company and establishing yourself as a leader. Nishi suggests that employees interested in promotion go beyond “your work group and talk to peers of your boss, who can offer you a companywide perspective on the management chain” and look for “cooperative mangers” who might be willing to “mentor you or at least offer advice.” In addition to this, don’t only demonstrate that you are capable of being managed, but leading. Show that you possess the knowhow, drive, and skill set to be an effective manager. Volunteer within your company, “immerse yourself in industry trends,” and “make thoughtful contributions during meetings,” recommends Nishi.
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