When gearing up for a promotion, there are some specific things you can do to advance your candidacy. Here are six steps you can take to help achieve your career objectives.

1. Fill a void. Identify a need of importance within your department. Then become an expert in that area. You'll not only help your company, but you'll make yourself highly useful and promotable.

2. Attack a tough problem. Give your highest priority to projects that others tend to shy away from. This will label you as a problem solver. Promotions are often decided by how well a candidate completes difficult assignments.

3. Develop winning business traits. According to a survey of supervisory personnel, it's important for people striving to get ahead to avoid the following pitfalls:

• Lack of initiative

• Procrastination and failure to meet deadlines

• Refusal to take on responsibility

4. Tailor your style to suit your boss. Your immediate supervisor is, in most cases, the key person with regard to your chances for promotion. Therefore, it's vital to learn how he or she operates - and to adapt to that system.

5. Be prepared for meetings. Study the meeting agenda in advance and decide which subjects are of primary importance. Focus your efforts on these subjects and have the facts on hand to support your position.

6. Make your co-workers look good. Your workers will appreciate your cooperation and will respond accordingly. Helping others creates a support group for you and shows management you have a team spirit.