Every time my manager asked me to take on a larger role or additional responsibility when I was at Amazon my first response was always 'Sure, teach me how then give me a promotion'.
Every time my manager asked me to take on a larger role or additional responsibility when I was at Amazon my first response was always "Sure, teach me how then give me a promotion". Yes, it was super scary to ask for a promotion or raise but, asking for what I wanted worked a lot of the time. If I hadn't asked, who knows what would have happened. I embraced making my career moves MY responsibility and didn't wait for others to decide.
Below are my 5 tips why you should ask for a promotion... even if it seems really intimidating to ask!
1. You Signal Ambition and Readiness
When you ask for a promotion, you're telling your manager and leadership that you're serious about your career growth. It signals that you're not just coasting—you're actively thinking about your future and ready for more responsibility.
2. You Open the Door to Feedback
Even if the answer is "not yet," asking gives you valuable insight. You'll learn exactly what's expected of you, what gaps exist, and what you need to do to get there. This clarity is gold.
3. You Take Control of Your Career
Waiting for someone else to notice your hard work is a passive approach. When you ask, you take ownership. You become the driver of your career, not just a passenger.
4. The Worst They Can Say Is "No"
And even then, you're better off than before. You now know where you stand, what you need to work on, and that you had the courage to advocate for yourself. That confidence compounds.
5. You Might Actually Get It
This is the one people forget. Sometimes, the answer is yes. Sometimes, your manager was already thinking about it but hadn't initiated the conversation. By asking, you accelerate the process.
The bottom line: Your career is YOUR responsibility. Don't wait for permission to grow. Ask for what you want, back it up with evidence of your impact, and be prepared for the conversation.