There may not be universal rules for getting ahead, but there are strategies that, when applied consistently, will land you more opportunities to advance your career. Beyond knowing what you want, working hard, and networking, consider these power plays: 1) Look for quiet opportunities to practice self-promotion.  This means asking for "the chance" or taking advantage of opportunities when they appear. There is an old saying, "if you don't ask, you don't get." Its cousin is "opportunity knocks but once," 2) Eliminate the attitude that only "pushy people" get the best opportunities. This will free you to spot more of them yourself; 3) Join task forces, committees, or teams that put you in touch with important people, notable leaders, influencers, and frontrunners; 4) Develop a personal "Top 40" list of individuals you've met along the path of your career who can guide and support you. Stay in touch with them at least annually in the old-fashioned way with a personal, heartfelt letter that updates them on what you're doing and your career, aspirations, and goals; 5) Nurture your luck. Being in the right place at the right time counts, but luck is more often a byproduct of action you consistently take to advance your goals.