Do you want your boss's job?

So you want a promotion?  Being next in line doesn't mean that you will get the job.  You need to be pro-active in your reach for that next step up the ladder.  How do you do that?

• Develop the hard skills required to be a leader.
• Find out what your strengths and weaknesses are so that you may obtain professional development to overcome the weaknesses and enhance your strengths.
• Ask for work that will help build your experience level.  To be a leader you will need to manage projects from beginning to end.
• Shadow your boss and observe the interactions between subordinates and superiors.
• Ask someone in a position of authority to mentor you.
• Investigate and learn corporate and industry trends to be able to contribute in meetings.
• Be visible by participating in activities where senior management or board members may be active like charities that the company supports.
• Support your boss and do your job well even if you don't agree with the way he/she does things.

Let your boss know that you are interested in advancing - gaining the support of your superior is the best way to land the promotion.

What other things would you do?