Ask for the Promotion

When you are ready with everything you need for a promotion, it is time to ask for the promotion. Do not wait for the opening to happen, and do not hint at it; ask early, and be clear about your direction. As backup, have the following materials available when you make your request:

• A summary of your current accomplishments

• A summary of the requirements (results, technical skills, and behavioral skills) for the new position

• A summary of your skill set and how you meet those requirements

• An awareness of the salary package you want to negotiate

Watch your timing. The day your boss received a poor performance review or the company announced poor results is just not a good day to ask for a promotion. Ask for your promotion on a day when things are going well, and at a time of day when your boss is energetic (do not ask at 3 p.m. on a Friday, ask mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday).

Prepare a script (not memorized, just a cheat-sheet) to open the discussion with your boss:

“I’d like to have that job in San Francisco. I have a list of the skills I think are needed, and I believe I am ready. I’d like to make sure you think I’ve covered the bases, and talk about next steps.”

Approach your manager early so that you can collaborate with him or her, and pay close attention to his or her responses. Remember, your promotion will create a gap in your boss’s organization chart, so part of your discussion will cover recommendations for your own replacement.