Going from employee to manager is like taking a quantum leap. Sometimes it's the most natural way to proceed forward, other times it takes time, patience and a good deal of planning.

Tip No. 1: Look forward.

There are many opportunities available to you, but you may not be able to see them. That's because opportunities normally aren't there unless you manufacture them. If you want to move into management you'll have to understand how you can better contribute to a company in a management role. Knowing yourself is the key here. You may be a whiz-kid in your department, but will you be a good manager? Your technical knowledge and expertise may win you that managing role, but is that what you really want?

Tip. No. 2: Understand the future.

What seems like a good place to be, may not be once you get there. The industry changes all the time and by the time you win your promotion you may find that the 'next big thing' has shifted and moved in another direction. To avoid missing the boat, research your industry, speak to managers, read the papers. Always stay on top of any new developments in your field of expertise. Figure out where the future lies and then strategize on how to achieve a promotion in that direction. You strategy may include more study or training. If so, there's no time to waste.

Tip No. 3: Build a people network.

Don't be shy. Talk to people. Management is 90% people-related. It's about communicating and building relationships. Talking also reveals how passionate you are about your job. In most cases, it isn't enough to just be good at your job. People need to know that you are good at your job and people need to like you being good at your job. And it's not just enough that your immediate boss likes you, but your boss's boss and other departmental bosses need to like you, too. To step up into management you need to have a reputation that precedes you. So, start talking.