The 4 Character Traits You Need to Get Promoted

After signing a contract, buoyed by a fresh wave of enthusiasm for a new job, most of us will think: work hard so you can work your way up. Yet when you are in a large organisation with multiple candidates vying for a promotion, you may find yourself being passed over for another colleague despite all your hard work and accomplishments. You could be asking yourself: Where did I go wrong?

Chances are, you may not have done anything wrong. Promotions are and should be based on merit, but what if your accomplishments are too close to call? You and your co-worker may have been producing similar results. You may have been showing similar progress. The ultimate clincher may have more to do with your character traits or personality.

Think about it. You may have all the qualities of a star employee: You're competent for the job, and you demonstrate initiative and efficiency in completing tasks. That said, in the eyes of management, a high-performing employee may not have the qualities or skills required to perform in a leadership role.

What qualities do I need to have to be considered for a promotion?

For senior executives and business owners, choosing the right person for a bigger role entails more than being able to do the work. This person must be able to make crucial decisions within a short amount of time. They should also manage people effectively, and inspire workers to constantly do their best.

Perhaps this is your first run for a more senior role. But even without prior management experience, certain character traits likely point to your ability to perform and succeed as a leader.

Here are just some of the qualities you must have to be considered for a promotion.

You are approachable

We've long past the days when leaders need to be feared. A leader who is seen as approachable is always a plus. Employees do not feel scared or intimidated to approach you for any questions or concerns. A leader who can motivate people to work out of mutual respect instead of fear is more efficient and effective in the long run.

Be more approachable by: Taking an interest in how your co-workers are doing, and being available to help. There are times when co-workers, especially junior team members, may have questions or commit a few flubs especially while they are starting out. Exercise patience, and be open to answering questions or explaining concepts further without sounding annoyed or condescending.

You have focus

People look to leaders for their vision. When multiple tasks need to be accomplished, having laser-sharp focus helps sort through the mess and zeroes on the things that matter. Showing focus demonstrates your ability to prioritise.

You can show your focus by: Taking initiative to come up with a project plan for your team. This includes identifying tasks for the week, delegating assignments to each team member, and arranging each task in order of priority.

You can see the big picture

To stay on top, your team or company needs to go beyond being reactive. You should be able and anticipate demands and changes within your industry. You must have the ability to look at a situation from a big-picture perspective. What can you forecast that others cannot? Looking at the forest instead of the trees allows you to plan strategies on a larger scale.

Moreover, if you have been working at the organisation for a while, you may have some thoughts on how to improve current work flow or processes. Find a suitable opportunity to share them with your superior to get his or her feedback.

Demonstrate your bird's eye view by: Making time to discuss with your boss on how to improve certain processes at work. Will this increase work efficiency? Will it help the company save more in the future? Proposing these suggestions and being able to back them up will showcase your foresight.

You work well in a team

An effective leader must be able to convince and motivate everyone to work together. To do this, you must be able to cooperate with others yourself. If you see a teammate struggling with a deadline, volunteer to brainstorm together or see if you can work together to derive a solution. Your ability to work smoothly within a team helps an organisation function optimally.

Bring your team spirit by: Checking in with your co-worker when you see that they are having a hard time with a deadline or task. By walking the talk and pitching in the work, you can show your higher-ups and your co-workers your commitment to finishing a task--you win when everyone wins.

Which character traits are more likely to receive a promotion?

While leaders come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, there is a certain personality that employers look for in promoting someone. Bosses look for a charismatic and likeable person who can work well with others and can command effectively.

Even if you may not be extroverted by nature, there are certain ways to exhibit these character traits. You can invest in your co-workers' well-being, or just be generally good-natured. Good communication skills are also a plus. It shows your ability to express your ideas clearly, should you need to order certain directives.

What do employers look for when promoting?

There are other unspoken qualities that employers look for in finding the right person to promote. Employers highly value integrity, as it demonstrates your ability to be truthful at all times, and hold yourself accountable in any situation.

While having a large personality helps in establishing your presence, it is also important to be able to exhibit humility. Humility entails that you are willing to admit shortcomings. It also shows that you want to improve whenever you can, and take feedback even from junior team members.

Contrary to the popular belief that leaders are born not made, with the right attitude and training, anyone can develop leadership skills and character traits at work.

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