The Game of Chutes and Ladders in the Workforce

Climbing the rungs of the workforce ladder can be an extremely difficult action. Other employees are always trying to throw you off the ladder or beat you to a top spot. Ensuring yourself safety on a rung is a daily task to make sure you don’t go plummeting down a chute anytime soon. So how can you move up the ladder and get ahead in your job? I’ve compiled some ideas on how you can be a constant winner in this daily game.

1. Volunteer! I know you don’t want to work on weekends or stay late at work, but if your employer needs someone to complete a last minute assignment why not be the first to raise your hand. Going the extra mile shows that you’re dedicated to the employer’s goals and that you value the company.
2. Be a team player. You can do every assignment yourself, but if you don’t work well with others you are never going to get ahead. You need to work together and cooperate to see the business and yourself grow.
3. This is my favorite idea – learn on the job. If you want a higher position watch those people higher on the ladder and learn what they do. My friend was a sales assistant at a local television station and she spent all her downtime and breaks watching the producers at the station. Lo and behold, two years later she was hired as a producer. Learn from others at your company!
4. Let your boss or supervisor know when you are ready to move on. Tell them your goals and explain how you want to stay with the company but you are ready to contribute more at work. If there aren’t any positions available keep checking back with them so they keep you at the top of their list when a job position is available.
5. Make yourself a vital part of the company. Try to learn everything from working the fax machine to making coffee in the break room. Take the time to listen to coworkers if they are having problems or just want to talk about their weekend. Work hard and play well with others. People will recognize you as the go-to person when they need advice, have paper jammed in the copier, or just need to vent.

Following these steps can help you climb to the top of the ladder at your job. Work hard, get your face seen around the office, make friends and have your boss know you are vying for a top spot. Have those chutes be a faint memory!