Life Lessons for Mid-Level Professionals
You’ve got 5+ years in the game, you’ve got a few people reporting to you, and others know you as the go-to professional in your industry. You’ve carved out a niche for yourself, but unfortunately, you’ve also dug yourself into an overworked, underpaid hole. You’re ready to get paid like the expert that you are but move out of mid-level management and on to senior-level roles. Here is what you need to be doing right now to get to the next level in your career.
START SAYING NO.
Maybe you thought saying ‘yes’ to everything was the perfect way to position yourself as a team player, but it also is a good way to be the fall guy or gal. As you build your expertise, it’s important to turn down things that will distract you from the specific areas where you are most likely to excel. Learn how to say ‘no’ but with grace and empathy. Let folks know what you can do, where you can help, and where you can add value. But set boundaries to avoid burning yourself out and getting spent in ways that don’t allow you to shine.
ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT.
Being twice as good and getting half as much has played out. Whether it’s a raise, more staff, and visibility, the opportunity to work on key projects, or to have more flexibility in your schedule—ask for what you want. Be sure to explain how what you want will also benefit the organization, how it will allow you to add more value, and why now is the time for the organization to move in that specific direction.
MANAGE UP.
It’s time to manage your manager. Managing up is a method of career development that is based on consciously working toward the mutual benefit of yourself and your boss. It is a critical skill for ambitious new and mid-level professionals across all industries.
It’s not avoiding work or rebelling, kissing up, or trying to turn the tables on a higher-up. It’s a proven strategy and if your boss is halfway decent, they will be glad to have you do it!