Career growth isn’t magic — it’s strategy. And no one proves that better than Jade Bonacolta, a former LinkedIn employee who landed five promotions in just six and a half years, eventually moving from associate level to a senior role before transitioning to Google.
Now based in Miami and co-founder of Archimedes, a community for LinkedIn thought leaders, Jade shared her tried-and-tested framework for career growth — including two powerful questions and four practical tips that helped her stand out in some of the world’s most competitive tech environments.
These two simple but strategic questions to her manager made all the difference:
- “What are my responsibilities at my current level?”
→ This gave her clarity on what she was actually expected to deliver — eliminating assumptions. - “How would my responsibilities differ if I were one level more senior?”
→ This gave her a clear roadmap. By learning what the next-level performance looked like, she could start demonstrating those skills before her promotion.
Pro Tip: Start aligning your current work with future expectations — and let your performance prove you’re ready.
The 4 Career Growth Tips That Made It Happen
Once Jade had clarity from the two questions, she applied these four actionable strategies:
1. Speak Up and Take Charge
She didn’t just do what she was told — she volunteered for visibility.
When assigned to create sales productivity slide decks, she asked to present them herself — even to senior vice presidents.
“I took the lead in stakeholder meetings and started owning key updates. That kind of visibility is hard to ignore,” she shared.
2. Showcase Results to Decision-Makers
By running high-level meetings, Jade built credibility with executives, many of whom were shocked she was still at an associate level.
Lesson: When your work reaches the right people, your manager has more reason — and support — to advocate for your promotion.
3. Choose Roles You Actually Want
Jade warns against climbing just for the title.
“Pick challenges that excite you,” she advises. Otherwise, you risk burnout or ending up in a job you don’t enjoy.
Focus on roles aligned with your values and goals — not just the paycheck.
4. Excel in Your Current Role
Want a promotion? Start by nailing your current job.
Jade noticed some peers at Google stretched themselves too thin with extra projects, only to neglect their core responsibilities.
“No one wants a half-done job. You have to deliver before you level up,” she said.
Promotions don’t come from waiting — they come from already performing at the next level.
Jade’s career story is a reminder that with the right blend of intentional performance, strategic questions, and proactive visibility, you can create your own growth path — no magic required.
Source – https://impressivetimes.com/career/linkedin-career-growth-tips-5-promotions-in-6-years/