Getting promoted oftentimes isn’t about being “the best.”
It’s actually far more about being reliable—and people being able to trust that you won’t make little mistakes.
For software engineers seeking promotion, these are the 5 small (but easily fixable) mistakes most people make—and why, if you can avoid these, your career is going to accelerate exponentially.
Part 1 is here .
Part 2:
Mistake #4: Not Asking for Promotion
Many software engineers believe that hard work alone will lead to a promotion, but this is often not enough.
Staying silent about your career aspirations means relying solely on your work to be noticed, which can lead to missed opportunities for advancement. It’s crucial to initiate discussions with your manager about your career goals and the potential for promotion. This proactive approach not only puts you on their radar but also opens up avenues for feedback and guidance on aligning your efforts with the company’s expectations.
Actively seeking out promotion conversations ensures that your dedication is recognized and increases your chances of moving up in your career.
Mistake #5: Not Getting a Sponsor
Having a sponsor within your organization can be a game-changer for your career advancement.
A sponsor is typically someone two or more levels above you, who can act not just as a mentor but as an advocate for your growth and promotion. This person is instrumental in providing you with strategic opportunities, such as leading challenging projects and navigating the complexities of the promotion cycle. Moreover, having a sponsor who is different from your engineering manager (EM) can offer a broader perspective and additional support within the company’s leadership.
Securing a sponsor ensures you have a powerful ally in your corner, significantly enhancing your visibility and impact, and greatly increasing your chances of getting promoted.
Navigating the path to promotion in software engineering involves more than just technical prowess; it also requires strategic awareness of common pitfalls.
The five common mistakes we’ve covered - not working on important projects, not showing results, not performing at the next level, not asking for promotions, not having a sponsor - are easy to fix but vital to address.
By understanding and addressing these points, you can not only speed up your promotion but also build a successful, long-lasting career in software engineering.