How to Become a General Manager?

Before you can become a general manager, you'll need experience in the industry as well as leadership experience. Many general managers start as regular workers or shift managers. After demonstrating your ability to lead others and work as a team, you can apply for a position as an assistant manager. After you acquire more experience, you can look for positions as a general manager. To get the attention of hiring managers, look for entry-level positions in your industry. That way, you can learn more about the field while you build your leadership skills.

For example, if you want to be a warehouse general manager, you should get your start in receiving, as an assistant inventory manager or assistant stock manager. Many businesses offer shift management and team lead positions that are ideal for people who need more management experience.

Start by working for smaller businesses, and then steadily increase the sizes of the locations and teams you work with. That way, you can show employers that you can handle complex operations. This lets you get a higher-paying position with better benefits. General manager jobs in factories, hotels or resorts management, tech companies, and gourmet restaurants are among the most lucrative.

In Canada, the Canadian Institute of Management offers several management certifications. This certification is particularly valuable if you want to rise to higher levels of management in the future.

While you're gaining experience, get as many of these certifications as you can to showcase your skills and increase your appeal to potential employers.