If you’re a natural-born leader, you’re always looking for the next step you can take to move up and grow – especially in your career. You probably even have a deep desire to take on a position that lets you use those leadership skills. But, no matter how strong and confident you are in your ability to lead, most workplaces require managers to “move up the ladder” through hard work and dedication.
That isn’t necessarily a bad thing. You should never pass up an opportunity to keep growing and learning, especially if you’re passionate about a management position with a specific business. But, if you think you’re ready to move up, there are some strategies you can use to get hired for your first management position.
So, if you’re starting at the bottom, do your research, show initiative, and continue to do your job well. Then, implement the tips listed below.
Ace Your Applications
Whether you’re vying for a management job somewhere new or within your current place of employment, you’ll probably need to apply for the position directly. While some employers will offer in-house promotions that change your position and title, your current boss must know you’re interested when a management position opens up.
So, what can you do to make your application and resume stand out? First, provide supplemental materials, including:
- A cover letter
- References
- A portfolio
Most importantly, tailor your documents to fit the position you’re applying for. It’s not enough to hand an employer an outdated resume that you’ve used to apply for dozens of jobs. Fine-tune each document to fit the role you want and don’t be afraid to list your soft skills. While hard skills are important for the job itself, management positions require characteristics like:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability, or knowing what to do when the unexpected happens
By creating an application that stands out, whether in your current company or somewhere new, you’ll automatically show the type of leader you are, and you’ll be more likely to make it to the interview process where you can really showcase your passion to guide others.
Show Your Skills
If you’re trying to move into a management position at work, one of the best ways to catch your employer’s attention is to go above and beyond your basic job duties. Seize opportunities to demonstrate your natural leadership skills as often as possible – and expect nothing in return.
You never know when the right people are watching, or when a fellow employee will brag about those skills to your employer. If you’re willing to take a step out of your comfort zone as an employee and take on the role of a leader without an official title, someone is bound to notice.
For example, offer to run a brainstorming session with your co-workers and take the lead when it comes to moving things along and keeping them organized. Use some of the following tips to stay on track:
- Define the topic or problem
- Set a firm foundation about the topic
- Create an agenda for the session
- Select the right technique for more innovative thinking
- Keep things concise
- Use the right tools for the job
Alternatively, you could volunteer to lead a group project or work on a specific task with a few of your fellow employees. Even offering your help and guidance with something a co-worker is struggling with can make a big difference in how your employer sees you and whether they can picture you in a management position.
Find a Need, Fill a Need
No matter what type of job you have or what position you currently hold, there is always a need for qualified individuals to fill management roles. Beyond the hard and soft skills needed to stand out, you can show your employer that you can fill that need by having the respect of your fellow employees.
You should be comfortable speaking to everyone in your workplace as though they are all on an equal playing field. Managers are supposed to carry a heavier weight than other employees, but they still need to be available and approachable. A good leader isn’t a dictator, and it isn’t someone employees “fear”. It’s someone they can come to with questions and concerns.
Showing your ability to connect with every employee in your workplace, while maintaining awareness, cultural sensitivity, intelligence, and humility will help you to stand out just as much as showcasing strong skills. Showing your personality and charisma will make it easier for your employers to “fill a need”.
So, don’t just wait until you hear about a management position opening to take your shot. Be yourself at work, but use every opportunity possible to showcase your leadership skills and passion for the position. And, if you really want to move up, ask for it. Apply, even if no position has formally been made available. Even if you don’t land the job now, your boss will have you on their radar for the future.
