Everyone in the world of business knows that there is a "glass ceiling," that one position in the company that just will not allow you to break through and climb higher. It is a very tough spot to be in, especially since you want to be more successful. What can you do to change this? Here are a few solutions.

Do Not Take Promotions That End in a Dead End Career

This is a very difficult solution, since you could use the extra money and the promotion would really be fantastic. However, when a lateral job promotion leaves you stuck in a position that only allows you to take one or two more steps up the corporate ladder, it is not the type of promotion you really want.

It is a double-edged sword, since the higher-ups could view your declination of a promotion as a sign that you do not want to succeed, rather than a desire that you do want to succeed. Still, taking positions that will eventually dead end your career are not worth the risk. If you have already accepted such a position, see if you can make a lateral job slide back into a position that will allow you to climb higher.

Hire an Executive Coach

You have heard of life coaches, right? Well, now there are executive coaches. These consultants help you figure out which direction to take in your career so that you can get to where you want to be in five, ten, or twenty years. They also help you examine the promotions that are offered to you, and evaluate whether or not they would be good choices for the upward movement you desire.

When a Company Really, Really Wants You, Ask for What You Want

Some people are fortunate enough to obtain the experience and skills that a company really wants for a particular position. When a company calls and wants you for a major position, you are touching the glass ceiling. At this point, if you are going to break through that metaphoric ceiling, you have to ask that company for what you want, and stand your ground. If they are that determined to hire you, they will give you what you want, and then you have finally shattered that glass ceiling and come into your own. Of course, that may take many years, and a lot of coaching to get there.

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