Now, I know we’ve all been there, sitting in our cubicles, dreaming about climbing the corporate ladder but … I also know most people don’t quite know where to start. And tbh figuring out how to get promoted intentionally (instead of just when your boss feels like it) can be hard. Well, I went from making about $68,000 to over $150,000 in less than eight months by scaling my career and I want to share how you can do the same.
First Things First ...
Let's clarify what I mean by “scaling” the corporate ladder. This article isn’t about entry-level positions or just getting your foot in the door at your dream company. I’m talking about being at a pivotal moment in your career where you’re ready to make a significant leap. If you’re not currently there, then that’s okay! But you may want to bookmark this article for a little later on down the line.
Now, if you’re already in a decent position but you're itching for more—more responsibility, more recognition, and yes, more money—then stick around. This is specifically for you. I love to talk about scaling, but most people come to our webpage and our social media platforms because they’re ready for a new job, not to level-up in their current field. So, I just wanted to make sure I had the right people in the room 😘
Identify Your End Goal
Okay, so you’ve determined this blog post really is for you. Bet. The first step in scaling your career is easy. You just gotta envision where you want to be. I need you to ask yourself:
What does my dream role look like?
Is it a management/leadership position?
Is it a specialized role in my field?
Do I want to become the head of (insert your dream department here)?
Whatever the answers are, it’s crucial to have that vision clear af in your mind. Y’all know how I feel about just doing stuff to do it. You have to know what your end goal is to know which direction you’re headed in. So, take a moment and actually write down your career aspirations. Visualize yourself in that role. How does it feel? What are your daily tasks? Who are you working with? This mental picture will serve as your guiding star as you navigate and work towards this exciting transition.
Work Backwards from There
Once you’ve established your end goal, it’s time to work backwards. But, and I can’t stress this enough, don’t just look at where you are now. Instead, get right down to it and conduct some nitty gritty research. Read as many articles as you can about people who have successfully transitioned into that career. Take a deep dive on LinkedIn and search for people with that job title.
And while you’re at it, make sure to explore multiple profiles and take notes on the career trajectories of each of the individuals you find. I want you to specifically look at what roles each person occupied before reaching their current position. You should also pay attention to:
Timeframes
How long did it take them to get to where they are now?
How long did they stay at each of their previous positions leading to their current role?
Literally ask yourself “Is my current proposed timeframe realistic?”
Skillsets
What skills do they have that align with your own?
Do you see any skills they have that you don’t?
Can you upskill those missing skills/qualifications without breaking the bank or going back to school?
Literally ask yourself “What gaps exist between my current skills and those required for the next role?”
Common Pathways
Are there certain roles that seem to pop up over and over again?
These job titles likely serve as mandatory stepping-stones to the bigger title at the end. Meaning you’ll probably need experience in that role to get to where you want to be as well.
Are any of these roles that you’ve previously (or currently) held in some capacity?
Literally ask yourself “What roles have I done in the past that align with these positions?”
And sis, it’s important to answer all these questions truthfully so you can identify potential short-term goals and/or roles that could help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
Now, Shout It from the Rooftops
Once you’ve mapped out your desired path and identified the skills you need to develop, it’s time to get loud af about your ambitions. Don’t shy away from expressing your career goals within your organization. Network your ass off. Let your manager and colleagues know that you’re working towards becoming a director or a manager. You don’t need to have all the answers figured out, but you do need to make your intentions clear.
You can say something like this:
Hey, I’m really interested in moving towards a director role in learning and enablement within the next year. If there are any projects or opportunities where I can contribute, please keep me in the loop.
Because the squeaky wheel always gets the grease, love! And being open and honest with your intentions can lead to new pathways you might not have even considered. People are often willing to help when they know what you’re looking for but it’s all about creating those genuine connections before you need something.
Seek Growth Opportunities & Mentorship
Also, it’s super important to be proactive in seeking out opportunities that align with your goals. This might involve volunteering for projects outside your usual responsibilities or attending networking events. And that’s okay so long as you have decided that it’s what you want and it’s not just an expectation that you perform free labor. But the more you put yourself out there, the more likely you are to find mentors or advocates within your organization who can support your growth.
And since we’re on the topic of mentors, keep in mind that they can be invaluable throughout your journey. Identify someone in your organization or industry who has experience and wisdom to share. Approach them respectfully, express your admiration for their work, and make it clear that you have a genuine desire to learn from them. A simple message like:
I really admire your career path and would love to hear your insights on how I can move towards a management role. Would you be open to a coffee chat?
Can open doors to learning opportunities and career advice that could significantly impact your trajectory. Remember, you don’t know what you don’t know but somebody somewhere absolutely does. You just have to buck the fuck up and speak to them once you’ve got them in your sights.
Stay Consistent But Be Willing to Adapt
Now, as you embark on this journey of scaling the corporate ladder, remember that (as with all things) consistency is key. You won’t see results overnight, and there will be bumps along the way. However, staying committed to your goals will set you apart from all the other peeps that talk a big game but never follow through.
Every few months, take the time to reassess your goals. Are you still on track? Have new opportunities emerged that you hadn’t considered? Don’t be afraid to pivot if/when necessary. The corporate world is always changing, and if you work at a start-up or mid-level company even more so. Being adaptable is going to be an essential part of your success.
And don’t forget to celebrate your achievements and your wins as you progress. Each step you take towards your goal is a victory, and acknowledging these moments will help keep you motivated when you really have no desire to keep moving forward, sis. Whether you’ve just secured a new project, you’ve been on the receiving end of some positive feedback, or you’re simply in the process of learning a new skill, take the time to recognize your hard work. And don’t be afraid to share your growth with your new connections on LinkedIn!
Let’s Wrap This Up …
Remember, the key to scaling the corporate ladder (and your career in general, even if you work outside of corporate) is motion. It’s about being proactive. It’s about being intentional. It’s about being strategic. By working backwards from your goals, building your network, and continuously adapting to the ever-changing climate, you can absolutely level up your career to heights you’ve only ever dreamed of.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start doing the damn thing. Because whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder or redefine what success looks like for you, I know you’ve got the power and the rizz to make it happen.
And, if you have any questions about scaling your career or navigating this journey, drop them in the comments! My team and I are here to help you every step of the way. Here’s to your success, fam! Now go make that 6 Figure salary a reality ✌🏾
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