By Sunday Tollefson, MBA, PMP® 

Q. I want to get two promotions in the next five years. Can you give me three actionable tips on how I can make that happen?

A. Yes! Here are three action items:

1. When you're moving up, lessen the amount that you defer credit to other people for your own achievements. Demonstrate your confidence in your own abilities, expertise, and ownership your accomplishments. 
2. In fact, promote your accomplishments to market your career. Do not expect others to notice your career. Manage up and manage out.
3. Declare your career goals often. An easy way is through an elevator speech.

Homework: Prepare and rehearse your elevator speech. It should be three sentences:

• What you're doing now
• What you're doing next
• Who you need to meet or want to work with

Having your elevator speech ready will open the door to opportunities. Remember, fortune favors the bold. 

Are you considering whether to advance your career with an MBA or a Project Management...