How Can I Qualify as a Team Leader in Tech?

Experience is key. You need to develop the ability to make independent decisions and be supportive when others seek your advice. Being helpful is a big part of being seen as a leader.

A true leader is recognized by the people who follow them. Focus on leading by example—many great leaders don’t have 'lead' in their titles initially. They spot what the team needs and take the initiative to make it happen. If you take personal responsibility for your team's success, others will naturally follow.

To become a leader, you should aim to be the go-to technical expert on your team while also being approachable. It’s essential that your colleagues recognize your expertise and that you manage to keep good relations with them. This sets the stage for future opportunities in leadership roles.

You don’t necessarily need formal education to become a team lead. It's mostly about gaining experience in your field. However, understanding leadership principles is crucial. There's a specific skill set related to leading a team that can be very beneficial to learn.