How to move into a leadership role when everyone thinks you’re too young.
You want to be a leader but lack experience working as a leader.
Developing leadership skills without being in a formal leadership position can set you up for future leadership roles.
Leadership qualities can be cultivated and practiced in various ways, regardless of your current job title.
Here are some effective strategies to develop leadership skills when you’re not a leader.
Create a Personal Development Plan
Create a personal development plan that outlines your leadership goals and the steps you’ll take to achieve them. Set clear objectives for your growth as well as a timeline. Review your plan monthly.
Be Adaptable
Be flexible in your thinking and remain open to change. Great leaders are known for pivoting at a moment’s notice.
Volunteer
Be the first to step up and take on the tasks others are shying away from. When doing so, be strategic. Volunteer for highly strategic projects and pass on the assignments that won’t advance your career forward.
Manage Up
The most successful leaders are masters at managing their relationships with their boss and their manager’s peers. Don’t shy away from conversations with people above you in the organization. Get to know these people and add value to the conversation whenever possible.
Secure a Leadership Roles in an Outside Organization
Join a local industry association or get involved with a non-profit. Don’t just show up for events. Make it a point to land a leadership role so that you can master your leadership skills when the stakes aren’t high.
Be Curious
Ask a lot of questions to better understand why your leader does certain things. Try to book a quick chat with someone in a leadership position you hope to secure one day. Ask them how they got where they are today.
Be Proactive
Do more than what’s expected. Demonstrate that you have potential. Don’t wait to be tapped on the shoulder for a promotion. Let your boss know you’re ready to move into a leadership position.
Pick one or two items above and put all your energy behind this. When done, practice several more of my suggestions, and it won’t be long before you find yourself in a leadership role.