Seven Steps for a Successful Change in a Leadership Position

These seven steps can by applied for up to six months before the change in a leadership position take place.

1) The job description. Start with your own, but then add the soft skills needed to succeed, things that you have learned from doing the job.

2)Train incrementally. Give a potential successor broader responsibility on projects, both for training and to test readiness.

3) Focus on future needs, not just the present. 

Link your succession plan to the organization’s overall strategic plan. Prepare for tomorrow, not for today.

4) Don’t try choose a clone of yourself. 

It may make you more comfortable, but will it help the organization achieve new heights? Organizations need different leadership styles at different times.

5) Signal the change of leadership gradually. Don’t let a transition shock your team Communicate openly what’s coming down the pike well ahead of time and prepare people’s expectations.

6) Have your replacement shadow you. Introduce the new leader to other managers and team members.

7) Offer a full support to your successor. The responsibility has been handed over, but future support is important for both the new leader and the organization. At least the first six months for top management positions.