Seek Out Management Experiences
If you’re looking to advance your career, more than likely, you’ll need experience as a manager of people and projects. Let your boss, mentor and sponsor know of your interest in developing these skills. Ask them to tap you for opportunities, and, if necessary, when opportunities pop up, nominate yourself to take the lead.
For starters, you can strengthen and showcase your ability to successfully guide the performance of others by:
– Taking responsibility for the orientation, assimilation and ongoing training of new entrants into your department.
– Leading special projects and temporary teams.
– Heading up committees.
– Chairing an ERG, an Employee Resource Group.
Periodically, update your boss and the project sponsor on what you’re learning about managing and leading. Document your experiences and include them in your appraisal.
