Get That Promotion!

by Amy Boone Thompson (Fitness Entrepreneur)

Career advancement is much more involved than simply waiting around until a position becomes vacant. Remaining in your current position can be quite comfortable because you know what is expected of you. Whether you feel you have the necessary skills to advance to a higher position or you are doubtful, sometimes you just need a little encouragement to take a risk and test your abilities. Ask your manager for additional tasks you can take on while you are in your current role. This will build your confidence and give you a chance to "try on" some of the jobs that you might be applying for if you decide to climb to another rung on that career ladder. Plus, it is more acceptable (and even anticipated) if you make some mistakes if you are only in an "acting" position!

Get Your Resume Ready
At a minimum, you should update your resume on a quarterly basis. You should make certain that your resume includes:

1. description of any programs you successfully launched or helped to run, with your specific role delineated and the success of the program quantified with specific statistics, if possible.


2. a record of all past and current volunteer work; contributing to the future of your community is admirable and shows you are an involved and considerate person


3. a recitation of all pro bono work (fitness professionals are frequently asked to do work for no pay, so remember to document these experiences).


4. a concise description of all previous positions that will highlight any leadership and customer service roles you have held, even in unrelated fields.


5. Experts also recommend that you keep your resume highlights brief and to the point. Simplicity is key here, since many managers are pressed for time. Finally, do not hesitate to brag a little (but don't ever lie on a resume!).