If you’re asking, “How do I get into a management position from an individual contributor position?” then here’s a quick answer:

1. Make your boss aware that you’re interested in getting into management. If he/she doesn’t know about your interest, then you’ll never get the opportunity. And if your boss is aware then you can begin to get the coaching you need to grow into a position.
2. Show your team and your boss that you have the perspective required to work at a higher level.
3. Demonstrate the skills that you need to become a manager.
4. Watch out for management job opportunities (e.g., a manager leaves, a new project opens up, there’s an organization change), and make sure your name is considered.

Thanks for making these articles available to professionals like I. My background is primarily in the software technology space and more recently (last 3-5 years) developing program management skills in a Fortune 100 company. My initial years of experience comes from leading teams in a managerial position. However, in my current place of work, I’m finding it quite challenging to get into one. In interacting with several managers, I strongly believe I can contribute better, but opportunities are hard. What recommendations do you have for folks such as I?