Ian Said:

Recent college grad, working in a large company...Just had my yearly review...advice for career development?

We Answered:

You can only take him at his word. Do you have "skip level interviews" at your company? That is interviews with your manager's manager? High preforming individuals are frequently "set up" to meet with higher level executives...you might ask about that. Also, definitely get on project teams that are cross departments. That will give you visibility, and the ability to move up. It will show you are a good team player, leader. If you see opportunities for such work, bring them to your manager. Don't wait to be "assigned" things...volunteer, point it out, even if they don't exist. Any movement in your company will be determined by your direct manager, so work with him. Your review was reviewed by his/her manager before it was given to you (just the way things work). Do you have a plan laid out for career growth? Not just projects, etc. but courses to attend, conferences, etc. All those are important....in skill building. If you lack visibility, it means that he cannot promote you as others perhaps are not seeing your skills...they need evidence.....work with him...and get to know his manager....good luck to you! (retired IBM corporate exec mgr/psychology professor)