Whatever your current field of work, there is a good chance that moving into management will be a career-changing move. Managers usually earn more money, have better benefits, and do less of the dirty work that makes lower-paying jobs so unpleasant. Here are a few ways to take that step to the other side of the desk.

1. Improve Your Education
A degree is not just a piece of paper or something to write on your resume, it tells employers that you have skills. In order to get a bachelor's degree, you must have solid writing skills, experience in high math, and a broad knowledge of your field. Getting a master's degree shows that you can manage a large project, complete it successfully, and communicate about it in a thesis. Improving your education shows your employers that you are ready for more responsibility. Civil engineering programs can help you get the leadership skills you need to develop and improve infrastructures. An MBA will give you management experience needed to run a business. Whatever your field, having a good education is imperative.

2. Develop and Display Management Skills
There are several skills that separate leaders from those who are being led. How good are you at taking on and completing projects? Have your superiors seen your ability to delegate and lead a group according to your vision? If you don't have these skills, it is time to start developing them. If you do have them, it is time to show them off to people who matter.

3. Look for Opportunities to Lead
One of the best ways to display management skills is be a leader. You don't have to have the title of manager to manage projects. Volunteer for big projects at work, especially ones that will gain you visibility with senior staff. When you are assigned to work on a project as part of a group, be an active and involved member. This will help you to hone leadership skills such as delegation and communication in a way that your superiors will notice.

4. Find a Mentor
There are likely many people in your field, perhaps even in your current company, who have made the switch to management. Develop a mentoring relationship with one or a few of these people. They will be able to advise you about making the leap to management and serve as a reference when you need one.

Moving into management will take patience and a willingness to learn new skills. However, this career step is almost always a positive one that is worth the effort and time.