When you want to step up into a position of leadership, it’s time to seriously consider if you have what it takes. Four attributes are key: proactiveness; plus strong communication, project management and people skills. As part 2 in our Emerging Leader feature , find out what’s essential in emerging leaders and how you can position yourself for a promotion.
Project management capabilities
When you’re leading a team of people, you’ll likely be held responsible for the projects that they need to work on. Sadly, many leaders find themselves in project management roles with almost no training whatsoever and yet they’re expected to manage timelines, budgets, reporting and stakeholder management. This is when IMNZ’s Project Management Fundamentals course adds significant value.
Express to your manager or HR team that you’re keen to upskill so that you can help keep projects running on time and to budget – gaining these skills also means you’ll be able to help improve efficiencies as well as relieve pressure on management. When you outline the training benefits, your manager/HR team should start viewing you as someone with commercial savvy who is keen to step up and take on more responsibility. It also opens the door for you to start being mentored by a leader/manager, and should build your reputation.
People skills
Strong people management skills, such as trust, understanding and respect are key requirements for any leadership role. Some people are naturals when it comes to dealing with others, while some people find it a little trickier. Regardless of your personality type, when it comes to leading people, there will be areas that come easily to you and other parts that can leave you downright frustrated, confused and a little stressed out.
Once you become a leader, you’ll be surprised at just how much of your time is spent dealing with your team members’ personal and professional goals, performance, concerns, and unexpected events. If you’ve never had to manage people before, then participating in a leadership short course like Team Leaders Essentials can help prepare you with the tools to deal with personnel issues quickly, confidently and appropriately.
You’ll also learn skills like conflict management, how to build a strong and productive team, as well as a range of other leadership skills that will set you up for success. Asking for training to grow your people management skills shows your employer that you’re serious about stepping up and that you’re keen to learn the ropes on how to be an effective leader.
Part two of a two-part series
