Employment

10 Tips to Become an Executive From an Intern

from intern to executive

Many of us will come to a point in our career where it is time to take the step forward into a more professional role. There are various tips and tricks to help bolster your chances, impress your superiors and create a lasting impression in the executive world. Let us examine the top ten.

from intern to executive

1. Diligence Pays

One of the hallmarks of executive-level thinking is to put in extra work when necessary to ensure the completion of a job. This diligence will demonstrate that you are keenly aware that hard work will lead to future success.

2. Physical Appearance

In the office environment, power perceived is often at times power achieved. Dressing professionally exhibits an air of responsibility and will show your superiors that you are serious about the role you are playing within the company.

3. Become a Team Player

While a singular drive to succeed is necessary, very rarely does a promotion arise should you not have gained the respect of those around you. Embrace active communication and become friendly with your co-workers. Management will appreciate your ability to recognise the team as an integral part of the company.

4. Become a Team Leader

There are also times when you may be put into the position to step forward to take on the role of a team leader in certain situations. Actively embrace this position, as it will display your enthusiasm and sheer ability to “step up to the plate” when necessary and the fact that you will not shy away from a challenge.

5. Create a New Position

One of the hallmarks of an executive-level mentality is the ability to increase the efficiency of internal operations. There may be times when adding a new position to the current workforce is necessary. By suggesting this to middle and upper management, they will see that you are not afraid to offer constructive advice when appropriate.

6. Ask for a Larger Role

Asking management to increase your role within a group or sector will show them that you highly value growth and progress, while not being afraid to move forward when you feel stagnated. This proactive attitude will make a lasting impression.

7. Apply for Open Positions

Do not passively wait to be given a promotion. If a desired executive position opens, apply for it. Worry less about the experience you bring to the table but instead, focus on showing management that you have the desire and drive to pursue your goals.

8. Schedule a Sit-Down with Management

As the saying goes, it can never hurt to ask for a promotion. Speaking to them face-to-face illustrates that you are motivated and can express your desires clearly and effectively; once again showing your communication skills.

9. Acquire Skills Outside of the Office

There is nothing more attractive than an individual who is willing to go above and beyond the office environment to learn new, pertinent skills. Examples of this can include attending trade seminars, attaining certifications such as the highly regarded TOGAF-9 or taking online courses to increase your existing knowledge base.

10. Seek Quality Improvement

Constantly seek to perfect your role in a certain position. Invent innovative solutions that can streamline your role and always strive to meet and exceed weekly and monthly goals. Executive level management will have no other choice but to reward you for these efforts.

About Author: Georgina Stamp has helped in the recruitment of interim management vacancies for a number of years and has aided various international and local organisations. She currently works for Marble Hill Partners, who help with executive searching.

Photo credit: pasotraspaso via photopin cc

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