Boost your internal profile

Are you starting to feel like you are ready for the next career opportunity, or would like more responsibility in your position?

Sometimes all it takes is a little extra work to catch your employer's attention. These quick and easy tips will boost your internal profile and help progress your career.

Work on cross-office projects

Volunteer for new projects or ask to work with a team you’ve never collaborated with before. You will earn a reputation as someone who can be relied on in a variety of situations, and be noticed and potentially considered when exciting opportunities for more responsibility arise. 

“As long as the additional work doesn’t distract from your day-to-day responsibilities, this is an excellent way to highlight your motivation, attitude and skills” says Katy O’Loughlin, Senior Consultant for Secretarial and Support Recruitment.

Invest in knowledge and skills

Gaining new skills and qualifications can set you apart from colleagues, and impress your employer with your commitment.

“Developing your skills further enhances your confidence and capabilities, and demonstrates to your employer you have an eagerness to learn” Katy continues.

Many training programmes offer part-time, long distance or weekend courses to work with your schedule. Some employers may even have a budget for training and employee development, and can fund a course that will ultimately benefit them in the long run.

Popular courses for support professionals include Microsoft Office Specialist courses, project management certifications like PRINCE2 and Executive Assistant diplomas.

Developing your skills further enhances your confidence and capabilities, and demonstrates to your employer you have an eagerness to learn. 

Utilise your appraisal

Many employers offer staff appraisals, which are the perfect opportunities for you to ask for constructive feedback, discuss your progression and set future goals and targets. If you don’t currently have an appraisal, or it has been over 12 months since your last one, ask for a formal review. 

Before you sit down with your employer, make a list of targets you’ve met, projects you’ve worked on and positive feedback you’ve received for your work. If there are areas you think need work, it is okay to mention these, too. This will show your employer that you want to strengthen your skills and are open to guidance. 

Your appraisal will give you a clear idea of the steps needed to progress within your role, or into a different role, which you can target over the agreed timescales.