This short instructional segment offers advice to anyone, particularly young people who are looking to get beyond entry level positions. Opportunities for advancement can be challenging and can introduce new elements of risk.

For example, you have to decide if the offer is in fact a job that supports your career path. If you accept the offer, will it lead to a dead-end job? Worse, will the job include unrevealed demands that far outstrip your training and capabilities.

Stepping outside risk assesment, the new job also needs to fit your career goals. If you don't have an idea about where you want to be in your next job stage, now is the time to sit down with someone you trust and figure out where you are going. The first step is taking stock of how satisfied you are with your current position. Will you still be satisfied doing your current job next year? Next month? Five-years from now? This might also be a good time to work through your own personal job values.

Clearly, the next job needs to be more challenging than your current job. It needs to keep you busy but not overwhelmed. Pay is only one consideration. The job needs to also offer certain perks. The new job should clearly signal that you have gained additional stature in the organization. Keep in mind that working 15 hour days, as well as every Saturday and some Sunday's is not a perk you are seeking on a promotional position. Speaking of long hours and pay, here is a very important question:

Q: Isn't an increase in my pay the most important consideration in my quest for a promotion?

A: It is indeed an important consideration, but not the most important. Here is why>>

• Next: Preparing for the interview>>
• During the interview>>
• After the Interview>>
• The Rules of the Game>>
• Saying No To a Promotion>>
• Rejection - You Did Not Get the Promotion>>