Taking the brave journey of asking for a promotion is hard enough as it is but with the current Covid-19 pandemic situation, this has probably started to feel like something one should not dare do. People are getting introduced to remote work and the job and economic market only seem to go downward. Promotions are the last thing on a lot of employers’ minds. Additionally, the current unemployment rate does not inspire much confidence in asking for a promotion.
Yet, there could be multiple reasons you may want one. Perhaps you are one of the people who had to work the hardest during the pandemic, or you had to take over the roles of other people who had to be laid off. Maybe you hold a crucial, unofficial position that should be made official. You could also be in a bit of a financial pickle due to the pandemic and having a promotion with a raise during this time would make the situation bearable.
Whatever the reason, do check up on the company’s performance during the pandemic before asking for a promotion. If the company is not doing so hot, promotion is unlikely.
How to ask for a promotion?
So, you have decided that you should be asking for a promotion. But how should you go about it?
1. Prepare
Just like you prepared for a job interview once, have all your documents ready. Collect every document that shows your performance rate and any additional work you may have done for the company during the pandemic. Do not forget to have tangible proof of praise and feedback you have received on your excellence.
Additionally, have a script ready and practice it. You do not want to fumble through the conversation. You need to appear certain that you do deserve the promotion.
2. Schedule A Meeting
Schedule a meeting time with your employer. A simple email that states the reason you want to discuss your performance with them. Do not mention the promotion beforehand. Also, choose a time when you know they will have free time and you will have their undivided attention.
3. Ask for the promotion
Start the meeting by talking about how you enjoy working for the company. Then, dive into how you have made contributions to the company before and after the pandemic, stating some of the key performance examples. Once the conversation is done, your employer should have a clear answer on why you are asking for a promotion. They might ask follow-up questions, so answer those confidently.
Now, you probably won’t get an immediate answer. They might need to discuss it with the HR or other superiors. They would get back to you in due time.
Final Thoughts
If you do not receive the promotion, do not get discouraged. The rejection could be a product of the current times. Instead, ask your employer what you need to do to achieve a promotion and have a timeline ready for when you can try again.
About the Author
BCjobs.ca is Western Canada’s largest job board, with majority of the jobs coming from Vancouver. For nearly 20 years, BC Jobs has connected job candidates with companies looking to add talent to their team. Here at BCJobs, we understand that looking for a job is difficult. To support our candidates, we recently launched a podcast to help you stand out during your job application. Listen to weekly episodes on our podcast to hear what recruiters are thinking and what companies look for when considering their next hire.
