[closed] What strategy can someone lower on the corporate ladder use to get ahead?

It is possible to start in an entry-level role and get some training on the job, however as you noted it is very important to differentiate yourself and your skills from day 1. I think the most important thing is to be true to yourself and to your employer - what are you good at, what are your skills, personality and what's important to you. This will help a long way in your future career in your chosen company. On the same topic make sure your employer knows what your strengths are, because as soon as you are in a job you should be thinking ahead of a future role and career plan in that company, while of course learning and executing in your current role. The results of your work will speak for themselves, however you need to ensure the right people see those results, and that key hiring managers are aware of you and of your skills.

Another key point is networking and creating contacts. Having worked in the IT industry for many years, the most successful people with the right contacts are the ones who get promoted and find new career opportunities. Maybe get a mentor in the company or team you want to join. Find ways to connect and network with people face to face. You will need a senior promoter (somebody who will speak for you and confirm they have seen the great results of your work) in the company also, who can help advance your career when the time comes for it. I firmly believe having the right contacts and connections is they key to successful career progression.

Best of luck for the future!

Hi

If you want to differentiate yourself for getting a new position , You have to demonstrate that you are really motivated to get this new role in the organization : Brand Yourself !
Ask to spend sometime to discuss with people you are already in this group and get information how things are working. You should propose to spend some hours in the targetted team , doing side by side to learn about daily activities , challenges .

Prepare Your coming interview : learn about the job , about objectives, prepare some questions , prepare a plan for starting day 1 in this new position , make some projection such as and after ... be ready to answer some tricky question about You , career plan , what you will bring into the team ...

And it will make the difference !

The job will be for you

Cheers

You add value to an organization by contributing to it. People who are busy competing are rarely collaborating. If you see someone struggling, ask if they would like some help - and yes - sometimes they will get credit for something you may have suggested. I spent a career helping anyone, to the best of my ability, who came to my door. Some got promoted before me.....but most of them remembered who solved the problem.....when your reputation becomes "the person who can solve the problems" you win! Adding the most cumulative value seldom goes unnoticed.If you're in it for the long run, act accordingly....if you're in it for the short run, it's probably not worth it......

Make sure the company you choose is consistent with the management style you are comfortable with. If you swim with sharks, expect to get bitten now and then.