You are on track for a leadership role, but before you take up the promotion with a bigger pay package and more responsibilities, let’s take a look at four areas to find out if you are ready to transition into this new job function.
According to inc.com, undertaking a supervisory role without fully comprehending its responsibilities can lead you to become an ineffective leader, end up burnt-out, or leave.
1. What do you need to succeed in this role?
You may have the skillsets to be an exceptional worker, but do you have the skills to be a good leader?
One way to find out what you might be missing is to speak to your boss or mentor. You can ask them what challenges they faced after taking on a management role and what they did to overcome them.
It could be people management, project delegation, oratory, budgeting skills that you might need strengthening.
By identifying them early, you can seek out opportunities to increase your capabilities in those areas.
2. Understand how people will perceive you
When you take on a leadership role, you might enjoy a bit of fame like a public figure. You represent your business unit, department, or company, and employees will be looking to you for direction.
On a flip side, they will take greater notice to your behaviour like when you are late, cancel meetings, or support any particular projects.
Adjust your behaviour, words, or actions to promote company values.
Going green and being sustainable are many companies’ missions in this day and age. When you regularly use recyclables or promote healthy habits, employees might be inspired to follow.
You can learn how your contribution can affect positive change in the company.
3. Are you willing to change your mind?
In a leadership position, it is still important to be humble and accept it when you are wrong. In the event that you announced a grand strategy, but later on, discovered a mistake or gained new insights, don’t be afraid to introduce a change.
It is better to communicate the reasons and demonstrate how the change will contribute more significant growth and success to your employees.
With a passionate attitude, your employees will be more willing to be supportive of the new goal. After all, changing the plans does not necessarily mean that you made a mistake, it means that you are more concerned with doing things right the first time.
4. Spot new talents
One way to have a great company is to have great talents.
Now that you are a leader, you may need to start scouting for people with skills you wish to grow in your company.
They could be employees in your current company or from outside the organisation.
Other than your daily responsibilities, you may need to take on the role of a mentor and start coaching, counselling, providing direction, and growth opportunities.
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