Many larger businesses or big retailers choose to delegate some of their management and supervisory duties to leaders in each department, known as a department supervisor. The specific path to become a department supervisor can vary in each company, depending on the nature and size of the business. Generally, the best way to go about it is to begin in an hourly position and gain experience, and always try to demonstrate your responsibility, professionalism, and ability to work in a team. If you want to become a department supervisor, you should take every opportunity to learn, and express your interest in being given extra responsibility.
If you go into a job knowing you want to become a department supervisor, it will be much easier. The first step is to learn all you can about not just your position, but the other jobs in your department, and what the current supervisor does on a daily basis. Look for opportunities to go above and beyond the call of duty whenever possible, and offer your assistance if you are able to do so. It is also important to always arrive at work on time, dressed professionally, and complete tasks by the deadline or earlier. This will demonstrate your responsibility and commitment to the company.
It is also a good idea to foster positive relationships with other employees, including supervisors and managers. This is because it is important for anyone who wants to become a department supervisor to be able to work successfully as part of a team. You should be able to quickly and easily resolve conflicts with other employees without having to escalate it to management, and to remain calm in stressful situations. As you develop these positive relationships, you should mention to your superiors that you are interested in taking on additional responsibility as a department supervisor, and then take initiative yourself to take on additional tasks.
Anyone who wants to become a department supervisor should also be able to demonstrate a commitment to the success of the company. Always portray the company in a positive light when discussing it with other people, and do not complain to other employees about the workplace. It is also necessary to be an honest, ethical person, and to always do the things that you say you will do. A real concern for other employees is a big part of this, and it is a good idea to always practice safe behaviors at work with regards to workplace policies, and ensure that other employees are doing the same.
