When you have learnt all there is to know within your career field, you may find yourself wanting to progress further by taking on a leadership role.

However, it takes more than being an expert in your field to be able to progress into leadership. To understand how to become a team leader, follow the six steps below:

  • Demonstrate leadership qualities
  • Enhance your skills and knowledge
  • Demonstrate emotional intelligence
  • Seek out opportunities
  • Build relationships and networks
  • Communicate your ambitions

Demonstrate your leadership qualities

Simply put, your employer won’t consider you for a leadership role if you don’t demonstrate leadership qualities. Firstly, consider how often you exhibit initiative. Do you take on tasks before being asked? Do you identify areas for improvement while also being able to propose solutions? Make sure you are showing your initiative regularly, as this is an important quality for leaders to possess.

Secondly, it’s important for leaders to have problem-solving abilities. You can demonstrate this by handling a challenge within your work, addressing it proactively and presenting viable solutions to your colleagues.

You also need to show dependability. To do this, make sure you are constantly meeting deadlines while delivering quality work. Show your employer that you can be relied on to not only show up on time, but to get things done.

Displaying a strong work ethic is one of the most effective ways to show your employer you are ready to lead. You can do this by going above and beyond in your role, showing you have the commitment and drive to handle many responsibilities.

Finally, you need to be adaptable. Show your employer that you can adapt to changes, whether big or small, and handle uncertainty with a positive attitude.

Enhance your skills and knowledge

You need to show your employer that you have leadership skills, or are willing to develop them to support your progression. Developing communication skills such as strong verbal and written, are essential for leadership. Practice active listening, clear articulation, and public speaking.

You could also work on your project management skills by learning how to management projects, budgets, and timelines for achieving organisational goals.

Finally, ensure your knowledge of the business is up to scratch. Make sure you have a comprehensive understanding of your company’s goals, strategies, and values, as well as the challenges and competition. This will help you to make informed decisions in future.

Demonstrate emotional intelligence

As a leader, you will be put into positions that require you to demonstrate emotional intelligence. For example, if your team members are having major disagreements, you will be required to resolve conflicts in a constructive manner, without making the situation worse. Although you won’t be able to show this until you are in a leadership position, you can demonstrate your emotional intelligence by handling difficult situations calmly and productively. Causing conflict to disrupt productively further will not work in your favour.

Seek out opportunities

Another way you can take steps towards becoming a team leader is by seeking out opportunities to progress. Volunteer for leadership responsibilities where available, such as leading team meetings or projects. This will show your employer that you are comfortable and capable of working in a leadership position.

You can also offer guidance and support to your peers to demonstrate your ability to develop others, which is an essential leadership trait.

You could also consider engaging in professional development. Taking courses, attending workshops, or obtaining professional certifications related to leadership and management will be beneficial for your overall skill and knowledge development.

You can study an entry-level leadership and management course online. At DLC Training, we work with the leading providers of management qualifications, the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). Some options you may want to consider include:

ILM Level 2

CMI Level 2

Level 2 is suitable for individuals looking to move into a team leader role for the first time. It will allow you to develop a foundation of knowledge that will support you in the beginning stages of your career in leadership. CMI and ILM offer levels ranging from 2 – 7, so you can continue to progress through the levels as your advance your career.

Build relationships and networks

Building relationships with current leaders within your organisation can help you to learn from their experiences and seek their advice for progressing. Also, it’s important to nurture positive relationships with other team members. When it comes to you taking up a leadership role, this will ensure a cohesive working environment.

Communicate your ambitions

Finally, and most importantly, it is crucial that you communicate your ambitions with your employer. Have a conversation with your line manager about your career aspirations and your goal of becoming a leader. Be clear about your goals and ask for feedback and guidance on how to achieve them. Employers know that their employees will want to grow and develop, and will be willing to help where they can.

You can also seek feedback from your manager and your colleagues to find out ways you can improve your leadership abilities. If you take on feedback and start making the relevant steps to improve, your employer will see your growth. Also, keep a record of your accomplishments and present them when the opportunity arises, such as a performance review. Highlight how your contributions have benefitted the team and the organisation.

Want to know more about leadership? Read about different leadership styles, characteristics of effective leadership, and strategies for effective leadership.