Progression into management requires commitment, preparation and the right attitude. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current company or aspire to a leadership position elsewhere, following these five steps will help you reach your goal.

1. Strengthen your leadership skills

Managers do more than just oversee the execution of tasks. They motivate teams, solve problems and make key decisions. Improve your communication, time management and problem-solving skills. Take leadership roles in projects or suggest process improvements. These activities demonstrate your readiness to become a leader.

Seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors on your approach to leadership. Understanding how others perceive your leadership style will help you refine it. Attend leadership seminars or networking events to learn from experienced professionals. Building strong relationships with your team and showing empathy when making decisions will set you apart as a potential manager.

2. Learn from experienced managers

Observe how managers handle responsibilities. Pay attention to how they communicate with employees, solve problems and make decisions. Seek advice from experienced managers. Their insights will help you understand what it takes to manage effectively.

Consider asking a manager to be your mentor. Regular discussions with a mentor can give you practical advice on how to deal with problems. Even a one-day observation of a manager can give you first-hand experience of his or her day-to-day responsibilities. Understanding their thought processes will help you develop your managerial thinking.

3. Enhance your knowledge and qualifications

A strong manager understands industry trends and best practices. Take courses in management or leadership. If your company offers training programs, attend them. Reading books and articles on leadership can also help deepen your knowledge.

Earning certifications in project management, team leadership or business strategy can strengthen your resume. Online courses and webinars provide flexible learning options. You’ll also be a more competitive candidate for leadership positions if you stay up-to-date on market trends and new technologies.

4. Show initiative and problem solving ability

Managers are proactive. If you see a problem, work to solve it. Offer ideas to improve efficiency and teamwork. Initiative shows you can handle responsibility and think strategically. Show that you are capable before the opportunity for promotion arises.

Look for opportunities to lead small projects or organize team building activities. Volunteering to take on additional responsibilities will demonstrate your ability to handle the workload. Track your results and present them during performance reviews to show your impact on the company.

5. Communicate your career goals

Don’t wait for someone to recognize your potential. Talk to your supervisor about your ambitions to advance into management. Ask for feedback and take steps to improve. If your current workplace doesn’t offer opportunities for growth, explore new options.

Schedule regular review meetings with your supervisor to discuss your career path. Being clear about your ambitions will increase the likelihood that you will be considered for a leadership position. If opportunities for advancement in your current job are limited, explore companies that value career development and provide training programs for managers.

Transitioning into management takes effort, learning and perseverance. Follow these steps, stay proactive and take advantage of opportunities. A strong leader is constantly learning and adapting to new challenges.

If you’re looking for a company that supports career growth, Atena is here for you. We do more than just find jobs – we build careers. We’ll help you take the next step toward management.

If you’re looking for a company that supports career growth, Atena is here for you. We do more than just find jobs – we build careers. We’ll help you take the next step toward your dream job.