Is one of your goals moving up a couple of rungs on your company’s supply chain ladder to success? Now could be a great time to show them your talents — and why you belong there.

When times are tough, like during today’s embattled economic climate, it’s pretty easy to pull back into the security of your turtle-like shell.

But the winners are the people who take these opportunities to show ingenuity, that they’re willing to take risks, and they’re looking for ways to improve the company’s overall position.

That’s how you get attention — and considered for promotion.

There are five key steps on the ladder to your professional success:

1. Bend but don’t break. You need to demonstrate you’re willing to change direction — even when it means “taking one for the team.” After all, that is the ultimate demonstration of teamwork.
2. No Yes men (and women). Putting your honesty on display is essential — look ‘em right in the eye — even when the truth hurts. “Yes” men and women might find short-term gain, but they’re soon left by the wayside.
3. Lead the way. There are no special initiations to becoming a leader. It’s the talent to convince people to follow you, which you achieve through honesty, common sense and your own actions. Show ‘em how you can get everyone on the same page.
4. Own up. When something doesn’t go as planned, step forward, take responsibility, and explain why. There’s no room at the top with people who are more concerned with CYA.
5. Brainpower. Let’s face it: The best bosses have more than a shred of intelligence. Good bosses are both street smart and book smart. They can quickly size up a situation, apply past knowledge, make clear decisions, and follow through.

Tags: economic, leader, supply chain, teamwork