Working your way into management positions requires a bit more than just succeeding in your current position. You have to stand out and show your readiness along with strong leadership and relationship building. Here are ten common, basic strategies to help improve your chances of getting there.
1. Hard Work
Few are considered for a management position without first demonstrating excellence at what they already do. So many in today’s world tend to do just enough to skate by and keep their jobs. The truth is that it is always those who go beyond the basic tasks attached to their position and consistently look for additional responsibilities that contribute to a team’s success. Those who take the initiative and become problem solvers who benefit the company will be noticed by those managers making decisions that impact your career.
2. Honing Your Leadership Skills
Management requires unique skills that set them apart. I strongly recommend developing leadership qualities that include, more than anything, effective communication with positive motivational skills. Ask those currently in decision making roles for opportunities that may require you taking a lead in areas of importance. This is how you will begin to focus on people skills and team processes that may make you a good candidate for that next manager position.
3. Network and Connect
Networking and connecting are critical for career advancement. We all know how people talk inside every organization. Knowing that and using it to your advantage can be crucial in developing strong relationships, particularly with colleagues and managers. Make yourself available to help other departments. Show others that you are a quick learner and have skills that are useful in all departments. When the time comes for managers to fill open positions, the extra effort you have shown will go a long way, as others mention your positive participation across the company.
4. Find a Mentor
Last week, I mentioned my mentor, Steve Rivers. I have had several, and I still do. Many have several mentors who actually grow into a “Personal Board of Directors.” I am a big believer in finding mentors, and I suggest that everyone wants to be a mentor. In my entire career, I have never asked anyone for help who said, “Get outta here kid, you bother me!” In our industry, I can promise you we all want to help in any way we can. The future requires good people and great managers. Also, don’t be afraid to ask others what they think. It’s always helpful to ask for feedback on ways you can improve.
5. Continuing Education
Constantly trying to acquire new skills will definitely help your growth and development. My wife is a realtor and is always investing in her future by taking continuing education courses. Sometimes, they require many hours of her time, but her managers appreciate the extra effort, and it never goes unnoticed. Taking extra RAB Marketing and/or Content courses is something that can actually open new doors for you. These courses include certification that you have forever and can be listed on your resume. They do matter and mean something to those in the industry. I would also suggest taking continuing education classes in project management and strategic/tactical planning, which can be very valuable in management positions.
6. Become a Problem Solver
One of the main responsibilities managers take on is problem solving and making decisions based on those solutions. Are you able to handle challenges effectively by taking difficult situations and resolving team conflicts? Don’t be afraid to tout your ability to solve problems. Your performance reviews and one-on-ones are a perfect opportunity for you and your manager to discuss your successes in providing solutions.
7. Express Your Career Goals
Don’t assume that your ambitions are obvious. Communicate your career goals to your supervisor and express your interest in moving into management. This proactive approach ensures that your aspirations are known and allows you to receive guidance on the steps you need to take. A mentor or career advisor can also provide valuable advice and support in navigating your path to management.
8. Understand the Goals of the Company
Managers understand how everyone’s work must be in sync with the goals of the company. Are you able to show that same mindset? Can you suggest ways your work and ideas will help achieve the common objectives? As a manager, I want those on my teams that think radially and work toward long-term success.
9. Be Persistent and Patient
The one thing we all know is that success takes time. It’s a process that culminates with rewards over time and never happens overnight. Thomas Edison said, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” Work hard every day and be patient. Those who sell for a living know that every “no” brings you closer to the “yes.” Every day should be treated as a learning experience.
10. Embrace Change
Finally, be open to change. Those who resist change nowadays are setting up a road block for success. One of the things I dislike hearing more than anything is, “That’s the way we’ve always done it.” My answer to that is, “If you have been doing it that long, it’s probably no longer the best way anymore.” Growth requires change. We must accept change within ourselves, change in the way we look at new ideas and methods, change in corporate culture, and change in the entire industry.
I learned a long time ago that there are two types of managers. Those who surround themselves with those not quite as good as they are – so they can shine. Then there are those who surround themselves with people whose skills are even better than their own – so they shine. The former don’t stay managers very long. Show those in charge that you are willing to do whatever it takes to help make their entire team shine.
Bob Lawrence serves as a Market Manager for Seven Mountains Media, overseeing the company’s Parkersburg, WV/Marietta, OH cluster. He has held virtually every position in the business over his 40+ year career, from being on-air in Philadelphia, San Diego, and San Francisco as well as programming legendary stations including KHTR St. Louis, KITS Hot Hits and KIOI (K101) San Francisco.
Bob also honed his research skills over ten years as Senior VP of Operations at Broadcast Architecture, eventually launching his own research company and serving as President/CEO of Pinnacle Media Worldwide for 15 years. Bob spent five years as VP of Programming for Saga Communications before joining New South Radio in Jackson, Mississippi as GM/Market Manager. Prior to joining Seven Mountains Media, Bob served as General Manager for the Radio Advertising Bureau, overseeing its “National Radio Talent System”.
