You’ll find numerous articles on developing your leadership traits. Also, you have plenty of books to inspire you to become a leader. But, when is the right time to pursue a leadership role? It should not be too late to get into the shoes of the leader. Nor it should be too early.
If you are interested in moving to a leadership position and unsure whether this is the right time, this article is for you. The situations may be different. And each leadership position may be different in its nature. However, ‘now’ is the right time to pursue a leadership role, if your answer is yes to any of the following questions.
Are you a problem solver?
A common sign that you’re ready to take up a leadership role is – you don’t have to wait to be told to solve a problem. You don’t wait for your boss to guide you with the solution. Instead, you take up the responsibility and sort it out at the earliest.
For example, let’s suppose the traffic on your company website is down for a while. You immediately start thinking of a probable solution for it. You take up the responsibility before being told. And your manager is happy that you’re presenting solutions along with the problem.
Do you take on small management projects?
If you are happy to take up management tasks, like leading a small team of people, mentoring an intern in the office, organising and leading mistakes while your boss is away on a vacation, it’s time for you to step into the shoes of a leader.
Do you have the qualities of a leader?
Alright. You dream of becoming a leader. But do you have the essential qualities to become a leader? Are you improving your skill sets? Have you completed the executive leadership program? Are you the go-to person in the office for your boss and teammates alike?
If the answer is yes to all these questions, probably ‘now’ is the right time to think of pursuing a leadership position. Prove that you can add value to the organization in the role of a leader. When it’s time for the management to think of promotion, you’ll be chosen without a doubt.
