Securing the role that you want – whether that is with a new company or a promotion within your existing organisation – is very much about understanding the valuable contribution that you can make to the business.
When determining the best candidate for a particular role, an employer is not only looking for someone who can fulfill their current requirements but must also feel confident that you have the potential to grow within the company and help it to achieve its own ambitions.
You might have a clear idea about why you want a particular role or secure a promotion but it’s important to also consider why an employer would want you as part of their team. Competition is tough so not only do you need to sell yourself, your skills and experience but you need to make these relevant to your future bosses and where they are heading as a business.
Do as much research as you can about the organisation and understand its achievements to date, position in the marketplace and future growth plans – do they have ambitions to launch new divisions or expand into new territories? Are they looking at developing new products? Think about what experience you have and how this knowledge will be advantageous.
If you have identified a promotion opportunity within your current organisation, discuss with your manager what the role will demand and what you need to do to demonstrate your ability to deliver in these areas. Volunteer to lead a project or become part of a task force addressing a particular issue to gain further experience in areas that go beyond your existing job role.
It is important that you share your desire to progress. Employees who can display a keen interest in the objectives of the business along with a willingness to learn new skills are invaluable to an organisation.
Putting yourself in the shoes of an employer is an excellent way to understand what you need to demonstrate to secure the role or promotion you are after. Ask yourself:
- How can I improve current systems or working practices?
- What experiences can I bring to the role?
- Can I demonstrate how I helped meet a particular business goal or objective?
- How have I helped to develop skills and motivate other members of my existing team?
- How would I like to see my role develop should I be successful in my application?
It is also important to have a clear understanding about your own career ambitions; do these reflect the objectives of your current employer or the position that you are applying for? If not, you need to carefully consider what your next steps might be, visualise where you want to be and what you need to do to achieve your goals.
Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance and accountancy professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today to find out more.