Taking the next step

In deciding whether you are ready to move up to the next rung in the career ladder, it pays to take a systematic approach. Chatting about your burgeoning career to friends over a few drinks after work may feel like you're mapping out your next move, but it's easy to convince yourself of something that may not stack up in the cold light of day.

The best place to start is to carry out a focused career audit:

• How has your career progressed to date?
• What are your career ambitions in the medium to long term?
• What does that tell you about where you need to be heading in the next year?

Think about your skills, strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, identify what you do and don't enjoy at work. Be brutally honest - no one else needs to see what you write down. What skills gaps do you need to fill so you can get to where you want to be?

For each of the skills gaps you have identified, think about what you can do to bridge them. Perhaps you can get some training, read career or personal development books, or find yourself a career coach. Whatever action you decide to take, put in place a specific and timed plan to get you there.

Even if you're happy in your job, give your career a regular once over – at least every three months. It's also a good idea to keep a diary or journal so that you can jot down contacts, ideas, interesting websites or articles you come across, as well as keeping a record of your progress and achievements.

Look around you
Many people default into the idea that moving up the ladder means switching companies. While this is one route, it is not the only option. There may be some excellent opportunities waiting for you on the next floor or down the corridor.

It costs companies a lot of money to recruit new people, so you have a built-in bargaining position if you move internally. You may be able to secure a promotion in your current company, or even expand your existing role so that it stretches you more and gives you extra responsibility and valuable experience.

Getting recognition
Being a hard worker doesn't necessarily mean you'll reap the rewards due to you, so look for ways to boost your profile in the company every now and then. Perhaps ask your boss to acknowledge your success in the company newsletter or on the bulletin board. It all helps.

Take time to work out how you want your job to grow, and share the plans with your boss. You'll usually need their support to move forward.

Try to dress and act for the role you want, not the role you're currently in. That doesn't mean spending a fortune on expensive clothes and haircuts; it's more about being well-groomed and professional in your appearance. Our opinions about other people are usually formed in the first couple of minutes after we meet them. First impressions are critical.

Move on to move up
If you hit the proverbial brick wall when trying to make an internal move, you'll have to look elsewhere. But how do you get a job as a manager when you've never actually managed before?

It's all about how you describe yourself in your CV. Don't lie or exaggerate about your responsibilities in a previous role as your future employers can easily check the facts. Talk about tasks such as training up new employees or hosting strategic meetings with your team – it shows your potential to be a strong man-manager.

Another option is to network at industry events or get your name in the trade press to attract potential employers. You can do this by writing an article for an industry magazine or even starting your own industry-related blog to give yourself an air of authority on certain subjects.