Job Promotion Meaning in Business: How to Get Promoted

Got your eye on the next step in your career? Whether you’re after a pay rise, increased responsibility, or simply some hard-earned recognition, getting a job promotion may well be the solution to all three.

But what does a promotion really mean in business, and how do you go about earning one? In this blog, we break down what promotion means, how you can tell if you’re ready for one.

Plus, we provide a set of practical steps you can take to move up the ladder (or, at least, closer to it, initially)

Key takeaways: Promotion definition

• At its core, a job promotion means moving up in your role. It will usually involve a new title, more responsibility, and a bump in pay. 
• But it can also mean being trusted with new challenges, leading a team, or shifting to a more strategic position in your company.
• In business, a promotion reflects your growth and value. It recognises that you’ve outgrown your current role – and are in a position to take on more.
• Promotions are often tied to performance, potential, and business needs. They’re not simply a reflection of time-served in an organisation.

Job promotion statistics

In the UK, data from the Office for National Statistics found the promotion rate was 19.58% on average between 2003 to 2017. But a lot has happened since 2017, so this data is out of date!

However, data from the US suggests that promotions may be happening at a consistent rate compared to before COVID-19. 

According to ADP Research data, managerial promotion rates returned to 2019 levels – 6.5% – in 2023, i.e. 13 people out of every 200 working a full year received a promotion.

Signs you’re ready for a promotion

We get it. In today’s competitive job market, standing still can feel like falling behind. This is why understanding how promotions work – and how to work toward one – is an important part of your long-term career growth.

Not sure if it’s time to make your move? Wondering if the promotion hints you’re picking up in the office are valid?

We often note these signs as indicators you might be promotion-ready:

• You’ve consistently exceeded expectations in your current role. If you’re not just hitting targets but smashing them, it’s a strong signal you’re ready for more.
  
• You’re taking initiative beyond your job description. Volunteering for new projects, spotting inefficiencies, or improving team processes shows leadership – particularly when done under your own steam.
  
• Others turn to you for advice or guidance. A clear indication of value. If your peers rely on you, you’re already stepping into a leadership mindset.
  
• You’ve developed new skills or qualifications. Whether it’s a course, certificate or hands-on experience, growth counts. It shows positive and practical ambition.
  
• You’re already doing some of the tasks of the next level up. Perhaps you’re unofficially acting in a higher role? It might be time to make it official.
  

If this sounds like you, it could be time to pursue that next step.

How to impress at work and get promoted

There are some traits and behaviours that will help to position yourself as the obvious choice when your employer is looking to promote from within.

Go above and beyond – but be smart about it

Doing your job well is expected. 

To stand out, you’ll need to go further. 

By finding solutions to problems, volunteering for stretch projects, or suggesting new ideas, you position yourself as a vital member of the team. 

Note: Be careful you’re not burning out by doing everyone else’s work. Pick your moments wisely.

Build strong relationships with key people

This doesn’t mean office politics.

We’re talking about developing a reputation as someone reliable, helpful, and trustworthy.

Forming good relationships underpins success in many workplaces and can support your case when promotion conversations happen behind closed doors.

Upskill – and show the results

Take the initiative to learn new skills, attend training sessions, or earn relevant certifications. 

Then, make sure your manager knows how these new skills are benefiting the team or business. Keep a record of your wins so you can speak to them when the time comes.

Once having completed some professional development, you’ll want to update your CV to reflect your growth. If it’s been a while since your last update, check out our guide to what a good CV looks like.

Own your mistakes and learn from them

Nobody’s perfect. 

As in all aspects of life, what matters is how you respond when things go wrong.

At work, if you take responsibility, fix issues quickly, and use feedback to improve, you’ll earn respect and trust. 

Get involved in wider company projects

If your company offers the chance to join committees, task forces, or cross-team efforts, say yes.

These opportunities show you’re invested in the company’s success – and give you the chance to demonstrate your leadership potential.

Of course, it’s vital that you maintain strong outputs in your core role in the meantime.

Communicate your ambitions

If you’re aiming for a promotion, you don’t need to keep it a secret. 

Let your manager know you’re interested in growing with the company. 

This isn’t the same as asking for a promotion – it’s about showing that you’re engaged and open to new challenges.

If you are wondering how to ask for a promotion at work – we’ve got you covered.

Think about your personal brand at work

How you’re perceived matters. 

Are you seen as dependable, proactive, and positive? Or someone who just keeps their head down? 

Consider how your actions, communication style, and attitude contribute to your reputation in the workplace.

Final thoughts: Promotion vs. new job – what’s right for you?

Sometimes, the best move isn’t up — it’s out. If your company has limited growth opportunities or your values no longer match, it might make more sense to look elsewhere.

Thinking about a change? Our CV writing service can help you make a great impression with recruiters and hiring managers.

We also offer career coaching services, including tailored interview advice, to help you land that next role.

We hope you found this article useful. If so, why not take a look at some of our other blogs, such as:

• How To Tell If An Interview Went Well: Good and Bad Signs
• Tell Me How You Handled A Difficult Situation Example Answers
• Being Self-Employed But Working For An Employer

Promotion isn’t just about working harder. It’s about working smarter, building trust, and proving you’re ready for the next step.

If you’re aiming for a job promotion, take control of your development, look for ways to contribute beyond your role, and make sure your growth is visible.

Whatever your next move, don’t wait to be tapped on the shoulder. Start preparing now, and take charge of your career path.

As always, the PurpleCV team are on hand to help with everything from cover letters to interview coaching. Contact us today.