Getting that promotion before it’s time

Abstract: Onward and Upward! That’s the way we may feel about our career as we work toward the rewards that come from steady promotions. But what happens when the yellow brick road to stardom is replaced by a bridge to nowhere?

If your career has hit an unexpected roadblock, you might be tempted to jump ship and move on to another organization. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, today’s college grad will hold three fulltime jobs before turning 25. Baby Boomers fare no better, having had an average of 11 different jobs before the age of 40. Job hopping might be expected of those beginning a career, but it is discouraged for a seasoned professional because it signals instability at a time when you should be contributing the most.

Before jumping ship, experts say there are things employees can do to speed the promotion process along.

The full article was originally published in the July 2008 issue of the Greentree Gazette.