Think about why you make purchases. You may have had a need (or not). Companies demonstrate the benefits of their services and products to you. Sometimes you may not even be aware that you have a need. But the company has made their product benefits known to you and how your life will improve as a result. You must do the same to be selected for promotion and career advancement. Let your bosses know how your skills, knowledge and past success will benefit them in the position you want.

The easiest way to get noticed is to always submit the best quality work, and before deadlines. Work on assignments that are important to decision-makers. Volunteer for assignments that will showcase your strengths and that will require you to collaborate with colleagues in your department and in other departments. Demonstrate that you have the skills to collaborate and that you know when to seek input from those with strengths that complement yours.

Again, consider how you make product selection. Sampling and testing makes selection easier. When you can see and experience the benefit of the product or service it is easier to make your selection decision. You cannot expect to be promoted if you have not demonstrated that you can add value, that you have the skills and knowledge to succeed.

Of course taking advantage of face-to-face networking opportunities is essential. If decision-makers don’t know who you are it is very easy to over-look you when names are discussed for promotion. Let them put a face with the name. They need more than a photo. A one dimensional image won’t have the same effect that personal interaction has.

If you don’t stand out in the crowd of colleagues around you, you leave the probability of being selected for that promotion that you want and deserve to chance. You need to differentiate yourself from others and demonstrate your value.

Career advancement definitely depends on getting yourself noticed, and you can get noticed by hard work, making a name for yourself, and knowing when to network.