People who get promoted at work on a regular basis typically display these 9 subtle habits, according to psychology

Ever wonder how some people seem to climb the career ladder effortlessly while others stay stuck?

According to psychologists, it’s often about subtle habits that set them apart.

From listening closely to taking initiative without being asked, these behaviors can make all the difference in getting noticed and promoted regularly.

Let’s dive into these habits that could potentially propel your career forward. Get ready to take some notes!

1) Proactive mindset

There’s something unique about individuals who frequently find themselves climbing the corporate ladder – they don’t just react, they’re proactive.

Psychology supports this, indicating that those who get promoted regularly exhibit a high degree of proactivity. What does this mean?

Essentially, these go-getters don’t wait for opportunities to fall into their laps; they create them. They’re constantly seeking out ways to improve, to learn, and to contribute more to their team or organization.

Consider it this way – instead of waiting for a project to be assigned, they’re the ones proposing new initiatives. Instead of waiting for feedback, they seek it out.

They anticipate challenges and come up with solutions before problems even arise.

Cultivating proactivity isn’t just about improving your work performance; it’s about demonstrating your commitment and value to your employer.

So, if you want to join the ranks of those who regularly get promoted at work, consider how you can adopt a more proactive approach in your everyday tasks. 

2) Embracing feedback

A key habit I’ve noticed among those who regularly progress in their careers is their open acceptance of feedback.

I remember early in my own career, I had a manager who was constantly promoted. I noticed that he was always open to feedback, whether it was positive or constructive.

He saw it as a golden opportunity for growth instead of an attack on his abilities.

One day, I decided to ask him about it. His response still sticks with me today. He said, “Every piece of feedback, good or bad, is a chance for me to become better at what I do.”

From then on, I started looking at feedback differently. Rather than viewing it as criticism, I saw it as an opportunity for improvement. And you know what? My career progression saw a significant improvement.

According to psychology, this habit of embracing feedback is common among high achievers. They understand that continuous learning and improvement are key to career advancement.

3) Mastering emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions and those of the people around you. It’s about empathy, self-awareness, and social skills.

In a study by TalentSmart, it was found that 90% of high performers at work possess high EQ.

Furthermore, EQ was the strongest predictor of performance, accounting for 58% of success across all job types.

So what does this mean in practice?

Those who regularly get promoted display a high degree of emotional intelligence.

They’re adept at navigating office politics and managing interpersonal relationships.

They empathize with their colleagues, understand their motivations, and maintain positive relationships even in stressful situations.

4) Exemplifying leadership

It’s no secret that those who frequently get promoted often exhibit strong leadership skills, even before they hold official leadership positions.

These individuals aren’t just focused on their own tasks. Instead, they take a broader view, understanding how their role fits into the wider objectives of the team or the organization.

They help others where they can, share their knowledge, and contribute to a positive team culture.

They lead by example, demonstrating dedication, integrity, and a strong work ethic. They inspire others around them to do the same.

5) Building strong relationships

Another characteristic typical of individuals who often get promoted is their ability to build strong, positive relationships within the workplace.

They understand that networking isn’t just for career fairs or industry events. Every interaction, whether with a coworker or a superior, is an opportunity to build a meaningful connection.

They’re respectful and attentive, fostering a sense of trust and goodwill with those they interact with. 

Success isn’t just about what you know; it’s also about who you know. So if you want to increase your chances of promotion, consider how you can cultivate stronger relationships in the workplace.

6) Displaying gratitude

One of the most heartwarming habits I’ve noticed among those who frequently get promoted is their practice of expressing gratitude.

These individuals understand the power of a simple “thank you”. They don’t take their colleagues’ work for granted; they appreciate the effort that goes into every task, no matter how small.

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They recognize others’ contributions, creating a sense of value and respect that motivates the entire team. This not only fosters positive relationships but also contributes to a positive work environment.

7) Embracing failure

Failure – it’s something we all fear. But those who frequently get promoted have a different perspective.

I recall a time when I was leading a project that didn’t go as planned. Despite our team’s efforts, we missed our targets. I was crushed, fearing this would be a black mark on my career.

But instead of dwelling on the failure, I chose to learn from it. I analyzed our process, identified where we went wrong and implemented new strategies to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.

Interestingly, this experience became a turning point in my career. It was the lessons learned from this failure that propelled me towards my next promotion.

Those who climb the corporate ladder understand that failure isn’t a setback; it’s an opportunity for growth.

They don’t shy away from taking risks for fear of failing; they dive in, knowing that whether they succeed or fail, there will be valuable lessons to be gleaned.

8) Continual learning

Another habit common among those who regularly get promoted is their commitment to continual learning.

They recognize that in our fast-paced world, staying stagnant in your knowledge and skills can be a career killer.

Therefore, they’re always on the lookout for new trends, technology or strategies that can help them perform better.

They attend seminars, participate in workshops, undertake online courses, read industry-related books and stay updated with the latest news in their field.

They’re not just focused on meeting the requirements of their current role; they’re preparing for the next one.

9) Remaining authentic

At the heart of all these habits lies one fundamental principle – authenticity.

Those who frequently get promoted are true to themselves. They know their strengths, they acknowledge their weaknesses, and they don’t pretend to be someone they’re not.

They bring their unique perspectives, ideas and skills to the table, adding value to their team and organization.

They’re not trying to fit into a mold; they’re striving to be the best version of themselves.

Do you truly know yourself?

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Picture of Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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