INTHEBLACK December 2025 / January 2026 - Magazine - Page 46
“I am a big fan of the idea of job-crafting.
Even if there isn’t budget or a formal opportunity,
if you can show people what you can do, this
‘try before you buy’ approach demonstrates
your capability to contribute at a higher level.”
WORK SMART
PRINA SHAH, WORKPLACE TRANSFORMATION CONSULTANT
show you are taking initiative, and can be in your
favour when looking to take a step up.
“In my experience, the number one reason
someone would be considered for a promotion
is because they have shown initiative. It is not just
about doing your job well, but about thinking beyond
your role,” says Morley.
“It is critical to show that you are not just ‘doing
the basics’ — you need to be able to show that you
are thinking outside the box. Showing that you are
curious about how the business works in other areas
and using your initiative will help you to be seen
before you even consider asking for a promotion.”
ALIGN ACHEIVEMENTS WITH BUSINESS GOALS
to realise that a promotion isn’t just rewarding you,
but an investment in someone who will add to the
company’s success.”
LOOK TO THE FUTURE
A promotion pitch should not only outline past
achievements, but also what you will deliver in the
new role that builds on your current impact, says Shah.
“Frame your promotion as an investment proposal.
Your aim is to give decision-makers confidence that
the risk of promoting you is low and that they will get
something in return.”
If a senior role is not immediately available, a good
way to show you are ready for more responsibility
is to identify gaps within the business and propose
solutions through stretch assignments.
“I am a big fan of the idea of job-crafting.
Even if there isn’t budget or a formal opportunity,
if you can show people what you can do, this
‘try before you buy’ approach demonstrates your
capability to contribute at a higher level.”
Most importantly, Shah adds, remember that
rejection is not failure — it is information.
“Ask for specific, detailed feedback about what
is needed for you to be considered next time,”
she says. “Try a response such as, ‘I appreciate
the feedback. I’d like to work on those areas, so I’m
ready when the next opportunity comes’. This shows
both maturity and persistence.
“It shows that you’re in it for the long game.” ●
Linking individual achievements to strategic goals
is a critical element in the promotion pitch. It is not
about just listing accomplishments, but explaining
why they matter to the business.
“Connect each achievement to the firm’s strategic
objectives or KPIs,” Marx says. “For instance, if the
company prioritises client satisfaction, highlight how
you improved a client relationship or retention rates.”
Demonstrating client and stakeholder impact can
also be persuasive. Include evidence of how the work
benefited clients, such as positive client feedback,
testimonials or retention statistics. This can also add
weight to the proposal and potentially position you
as someone who enhances the company’s reputation.
Showing how your own personal growth also
aligns with business growth can help to
present a powerful argument.
“Articulate how your own career
aspirations will translate into benefits
for the company,” says Marx. “Show
that you’ve been proactive about your
EXPLORE
development — earning a certification,
CPA Australia’s
learning a new skill, etc. — in ways that
range of career
prepare you for future company needs.
development courses
Essentially, you want decision-makers
46 INTHEBLACK Dec 2025/Jan 2026 SPECIAL EDITION
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