{"id":8417,"date":"2021-01-15T13:06:45","date_gmt":"2021-01-15T18:06:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/flevy.com\/blog\/?p=8417"},"modified":"2022-07-13T09:56:06","modified_gmt":"2022-07-13T14:56:06","slug":"how-to-secure-a-leadership-role-in-2021","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/flevy.com\/blog\/how-to-secure-a-leadership-role-in-2021\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Secure a Leadership Role in 2021"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"As you climb the career ladder in 2021, your overriding objective might be to secure a leadership role.<\/a> These job roles typically represent the very highest positions within your industry and highlight your success, talents and hard work. Of course, securing a leadership position isn\u2019t easy. In fact, it can take years of experience and determination to land a top job.<\/p>\n

However, there are ways you can enhance your suitability and fast-track the process. To ensure you\u2019re on track to land your dream job, take a look at these top tips for securing a leadership role in 2021:<\/p>\n

1. Leadership Qualifications<\/h2>\n

First and foremost, determine whether there are any particular qualifications you\u2019ll need to progress into a leadership position in your industry.\u00a0 Similarly, it\u2019s worth finding out whether there are specific credentials that are favored by employers or business owners; or if it\u2019s purely skills-based, in which\u00a0working with a leadership development consultant<\/a>\u00a0can help you sharpen your leadership skills and processes.<\/p>\n

These qualifications are often sector-specific and will incorporate both theoretical and practical aspects of leadership. If you work in business, for example, an MBA or DBA might be appropriate. Alternatively, an online DNP executive leadership program from an accredited school<\/a> might be preferred by healthcare employers. With sector-specific options for every industry, you should find it easy to identify relevant qualifications that will give you the grounding you need to move into a leadership role.<\/p>\n

2. Take on More Responsibility<\/h2>\n

Volunteering to take on more responsibility at work will mark you out as a leader and someone who is willing to put in the effort. Although you may not be formally rewarded in terms of an increase in salary just yet, a willingness to accept responsibility<\/a> is a critical part of being a leader. Volunteering to compile a workplace schedule, train new recruits or monitor project results will help you to gain the respect of your colleagues and recognition from your managers.<\/p>\n

Remember \u2013 taking on more responsibility doesn\u2019t only refer to tasks that need to be completed within the working day. You could volunteer to train as a first aider or take on the responsibility of planning staff social events, for example. Any opportunity to commit to the team and shoulder more responsibility can signal you out as a good leader.<\/p>\n

3. Find a Mentor<\/h2>\n

Having a mentor can be extremely advantageous<\/a> when you\u2019re climbing the career ladder. As someone who has already achieved your goals, your mentor will be well-placed to offer advice and assistance. In addition to this, your mentor may have professional contacts and connections, which could help you to secure internships or interviews in the future.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re lucky, you may already have someone in mind who will be willing to act as an informal mentor. If not, there\u2019s no need to panic. There are many programs designed to pair mentors and mentees, so find out which mentoring programs are most successful in your industry and start applying.<\/p>\n

4. Hone Your Leadership Skills<\/h2>\n

As a leader, you\u2019ll need to showcase a wide variety of skills. While some of these skills can be learned via formal courses, such as advanced degrees, others are deemed \u2018soft skills\u2019, which need to be developed along the way. To be a successful leader,<\/a> for example, you\u2019ll need to have the following skills or traits:<\/p>\n