I’m sorry to disappoint, but I find that those who seek promotion the most are the ones least likely to be promoted to the position they want. I recommend being yourself while pursuing goals that interest you, seeking education that stimulates you, working with people who engage with you, and helping others succeed instead of yourself. Promotions will follow.
The key is a serving mindset. No MBA, committee, collaboration, event, or positioning will determine your willingness to serve. All may contribute to a chair’s skill set, but the sense of obligation to develop and lead a team can only come from an altruistic resolve to put others first. It is hard work that requires sacrifice and a willingness to fail so that others may succeed. I recommend it.
Dr. Kalaycio is editor in chief of Hematology News. He chairs the department of hematologic oncology and blood disorders at Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute. Contact him at kalaycm@ccf.org.