Completing your everyday tasks just isn't enough when it comes to getting under your boss's spotlight and landing a promotion. With everybody in the workplace showing up to complete their daily tasks, what makes you stand out?

In order to get promoted, you must get the attention of your employer, and in order to do that, you must differentiate yourself from the rest of the team.

Here are 9 tips to help you stand out and get the promotion you deserve.

1. Eye Contact

Studies have shown that human senses and brain cells are triggered when someone is looking at you, thanks to a phenomenon commonly known as a “gaze detector.” Whether it be a one-on-one exchange or a regular conference meeting, when conversing with your employer you have to maintain eye contact. A constantly shifting gaze or downcast eyes do not send the message that you're present and focused.

Don't forget, eye contact is also a strong indicator of a person's confidence level. And managers always appreciate a courageous and concentrated employee.

2. On-Time

Shakespeare once said, “Better three hours too soon than a minute too late.” Nothing broadcasts apathy toward your job more than showing up late to work, even if that's not your intention. In most cases, it's an occurrence that could have been easily avoided, so take care to plan your life properly. When you're late, you are potentially decreasing work productivity for your co-workers. By getting to work early, you are illustrating your dedication to your job; an attribute employers love and can't easily ignore.

3. Engagement

To get the promotion, you must take initiative. This means going above and beyond your average work tasks and responsibilities. Don’t be intimidated by taking the lead and becoming a driving force behind your team’s productivity. Be open to work on new projects and look for opportunities to volunteer to help. Even if your boss doesn't immediately recognize how engaged you are, they’ll see it through your numbers and productivity.

4. Dependability

It's every employer’s dream to be able to call on someone and delegate a task with zero concerns on if it will be completed in a correct or timely manner. When upper management delegates a task to you, that means they are putting their trust in your hands. Now it’s your job to make sure you deliver top quality work on time. Your capability to show up and deliver are only a few of the factors that prove your ability to be trusted. If your supervisor is constantly looking to you and delegating tasks your way, you're doing something right.

5. Know When To Speak Up

You have a voice, so you shouldn't be afraid to use it. An employee who gives their input on projects and business activities is an employee who cares. And those who care, get rewarded. Whether it be during meetings or face-to-face interactions, don't be intimidated to get involved on relevant topics and let your voice be heard. However, you don't want to overstep, so make sure you find a balance on when to pitch in and when to keep quiet.

6. Know When to Keep Your Mouth Shut

Some offices can sometimes sound like a high school cafeteria with the amount of gossip being passed around. Instead of the buzz being centered around the ‘popular kids’, it’s often revolved around business operations or a co-worker in the office. It's normal for individuals to vent about their problems and concerns, however, when you're in the office space, keep your nose clean. You do not need to be caught up in anyone else's drama or bad feelings. So when you’re in the office, keep your mouth shut and your eyes on your work.

7. Positivity

Time to turn the energy switch to level 1000. Put aside the morning's commuting nightmare, or the shoulder-check you received in the subway. When you walk into the office on Monday morning, put on a smile and wish everyone a good morning. Be enthusiastic around the office and provide a helping hand to your colleagues. Before you know it, your positivity will have spread throughout the entire building. Managers look to people who add to the office, and not those who look as if they dread their job.

8. Self Investment

As you're aware, you won't be the only person working to get a new position. You need to stand out, and the most dominant differentiator is your skillset. Use your personal time to increase your skills by taking a class, or earning a certification in a relevant field.  When your skills increase so does your value. So never stop learning, even if it means doing it on your own time.

9. Big Picture

Every successful company has long-term plans or goals. All of the tasks that you and your team members are working on are all little variables to the company's big equation. The goal is always at the top of upper management's agenda, so make it yours as well. Look for extra ways to contribute to the company’s big picture, even if it means you won't receive full recognition. 

And even if you don't get the next promotion that comes down the line, you'll be sending a very strong and clear message to your boss that you are a team player who is worth investing in.

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