I recently moderated a panel at a conference and asked the group of successful executives to describe someone who has been instrumental in their careers. Two panelists eagerly jumped in with stories of bosses who had mentored, encouraged, and opened doors for them. Then, hesitantly at first, the last person shared a far different experience.
How to Advance in Your Career When Your Boss Won’t Help
Find ways to work with influential people in your organization.
July 26, 2018
Andrew Lichtenstein/Getty Images
Summary.
Bosses can guide and advance your career, but they can also leave you floundering without chances to prove — and improve — yourself. If you work under a boss who won’t advocate for you, there are steps you can take to advance your career on your own. Developing a group of mentors to fill in for your boss is the first way to start. You should also seek out and prioritize opportunities to impress stakeholders — and then find ways to work with those who are centers of influence in your organization. And while gaining visibility within your organization is important, getting recognition from others in your industry and the media is also essential to boosting your status and impressing higher-ups.
New!
HBR Learning
Leveraging Your Networks Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leveraging Your Networks. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Map, assess, and strengthen your professional relationships.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Leveraging Your Networks Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leveraging Your Networks. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Map, assess, and strengthen your professional relationships.