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You’ve been working for your company for some time now, and although you are good at what you do you are being constantly overlooked for a promotion.

In fact, other co-workers are competing with you and winning. It just doesn’t seem fair, does it? You work hard, you are well liked and you know your stuff. You may even have a lot more experience and skills than your co-workers. You have an idea about your corporate development career path, but you are not sure where it is going.

So, what are you doing wrong?

Going for a promotion takes a lot of energy. From the moment that the new promotion is announced you begin positioning yourself as the most suitable candidate. Trying to beat a co-worker to a promotion has its own difficulties too. Once you have lodged your application or even hinted at your desire for a promotion all eyes are on you. And, there are many things at stake like your standing, your authority within your own team, and your reputation.

While your corporate development career path may seem that it is not going anywhere there are things you can do. Next time you are up against a co-worker for a promotion consider these important steps.

1. What Would The Perfect Candidate Look Like?

Don’t spend time worrying about who is going for the job and what skills or experiences they have. Instead, create an image of what the perfect candidate would look like. How would this person act? What would they say? What skills or experiences would they have?

Now that you have this mental image in your mind, fit yourself into this role. If you don’t have the skills or experiences find out ways that you can get them, and mention them in your application.

2. What Advantages Do Your Co-Workers Have That You Don’t?

Create a list of advantages that your co-worker has in regards to fulfilling this position. Now, when you look at this wonderful list it may make you feel that you don’t stand a chance, but this is not the case. When you know what you are really up against you can be better prepared.

As well, make a list of the disadvantages this person has. Keep things professional and look at their career development only. Don’t get personal because this will only distract you and won’t put you in a position for success.

3. Study and Research Every Aspect of the Job Description

Job descriptions can tend to be a dream list more than a reality. They will list the experiences and qualities that an ideal candidate must have, but at the end of the day, there might be two or three core competencies that are really important. As well, descriptions might include formal requirements but exclude certain skills that are actually very important for the job.

You already work for the company and are at an advantage of finding out what is really required through informal channels.

Once you know you can ensure that your application speaks directly to the things that are most wanted and needed. Don’t ignore the other aspects though because they are important too. Focus on what the company is really looking for and how well you can deliver.

4. Make Sure Your Application Stands Out

Now is the time to focus on your application. Make a note of where you have a clear advantage over your competition and ensure that you can express this clearly.

Never put another person down during an interview. This is bad form and just plain rude. Without mentioning names, you can still impress the interview panel with how well-suited you are for the position by focusing on what skills and experiences you have.

Keep in mind what the perfect candidate looks like and how well you are prepared to be that person. Don’t just talk about your skills but show how well suited they would be to this particular position. Then “wow” the interview panel with all you have.

Competing with an internal candidate is difficult and very challenging. Notwithstanding, these four steps will show that you, and not your co-worker deserve the promotion more.

Good luck!

And always remember:

Great managers are made. Not born.

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