How do you know if you have the proper skills for executing your role in management?

. 3 min read

This is a great question. We’ve all had managers that were wonderful, and maybe a few managers along the way who…weren’t. After dealing with less-than-wonderful leadership, you may have found yourself thinking, “Well, I could do better than that!” But do you really have what it takes to be a successful manager?

Most subject experts agree there are several factors that make a successful manager – maybe it’s three things; maybe it’s five. 10 seems to be a popular number. Courtesy of Biospace, here are 10 signs that you’re ready to properly execute your managerial role:

- You know your role, from the largest factors to the minutaie.

- You don’t mind delegating – as a manager, you can’t do everything.

- You’re effective at communicating. This is definitely essential to prevent misunderstandings.

- You want to see your employees succeed.

- You are successful at thinking strategically. Can you balance short-term and long-term planning and goals?

- You lead by example. It’s crucial to model appropriate leadership to your team.

- You actually want the responsibility of leadership. Management comes with a variety of responsibilites that differ from other jobs, and if you want them – go for it!

- You’re interested in the big picture. Can you balance big-picture and small-picture thinking to accomplish goals?

- You can consult well with others. See #2 – this involves delegation and working well with other team members.

- You have a defined leadership philosophy. You can’t be an effective leader if you don’t actually know what your job is, what your goals are, or what your responsibilities are.

If you recognize yourself in the above statements, it’s likely that you have the skills you need to succeed in a managerial position. But the only way to really know is to give it a try!