On January 20th, the forty-fourth President of the United States will be inaugurat-ed into office. As the media speculates about what Barack Obama will do in his first several months in office, observing how he does things will be just as fascinating. After all, the presidency is the most scrutinized leadership position in America and the leadership skills required to hold this post are complex and multifaceted. Fortunately, the President-elect has advisors coaching him as he transitions into office and he has had some lead time to prepare for his new role. Leaders in other organizations are not always afforded these same support structures. Leaders in transition, regardless of level, are often "thrown into the fire" without being afforded the opportunity to hone the skills they will need to be successful in their new role. People often realize, too late, that what made them successful in their previous leadership role may not be effective in a more senior role. Role transitions are critical junctures in the leadership journey, and can present opportune moments when leaders are most open to change their behavior and learn new skills. Some of the most valuable tips that a leader in transition may want to consider are simple to incorporate into their transition plan.

Tip 1: Don't wait to prepare for that next promotion. Consider the skills that a leader in a higher level position needs to be successful. Take the time to assess your current skills and invest in your future. Seek out projects that will help you develop these new skills and gain an understanding and appreciation for higher level management skills. Take advantage of developmental opportunities, whether they be formal in-class training or more informal, on-the-job development where you can work with top performing leaders.

Tip 2: Balance observation with action. Striking the chord between observing dynamics and processes with creating change is a hard balance to achieve. Generally, a team or department has developed a rhythm prior to your arrival. Taking time to honor the way that things are currently being done is important - there are likely reasons for why things are done and the way they are done, even if they don't seem to make sense or are not clear to you initially. Of course, employees will be anxious to see what you do or don't do to help improve their work life or to increase the organization's effectiveness. Some early "wins" will help boost your credibility.

Tip 3: Do not assume that the same skills that have made you effective in the past will make you effective in the future. Take time to think about your strengths and weaknesses and what might be a help or hindrance to you as you assume a new role. Developing a personal action plan designed to narrow any existing skill gaps will contribute greatly to your overall effectiveness.

Consider incorporating these key tips into your development and leadership transition plans. Remember, leadership excellence is about creating a journey that you are able to enjoy as you achieve results.