Earlier this week, we talked about identifying the admirable qualities in your future leaders. By now, many of you have identified them, made your list and written two leadership qualities by each name. Now it’s time to let these team members know what you’re thinking. It’s time to call and set up an appointment to have a Leadership Conversation.

Before you get started, schedule time in your calendar to make calls and block out the time to do it.  To create a system you’ll want to do this every month to make it a habit.

The purpose of this call is to let your team member know that you think she/he would be a good leader, tell them why and invite them to hear more about it. For best results, you’ll want to talk with them, not text or email.  This is not the call to tell them more or ask for the decision.  The only reason you are calling is to invite them to schedule a Leadership Conversation.

This conversation can be done in person or if the person lives too far away, you’ll want to schedule a 30-minute phone appointment. Whichever way you choose to do it, be sure you both are at a place and time when there will be no interruptions from kids, husbands, dogs, driving, etc. You’ll want to focus your full attention on your future leader, showing her/him what leadership in your company can do for her/him.

Here’s an example of what you may want to say when you call:

Hi, Mary. This is Janet. I was thinking of you and wanted to tell you how much I’m enjoying having you on my team. You’re so outgoing and fun and I’ve noticed how persistent you are about building your business. Those are two great leadership qualities. Have you ever thought about becoming a Leader?

Mary replies, “No, I’ve never thought of it.

Well the reason I’m calling is I’d like to invite you to set a time when we can spend 30 minutes together.  I’ll share the benefits and qualifications and we’ll find out if this is a fit for you and something you’d like to do.  I have some time tomorrow morning or Thursday afternoon to get together. Which works best for you?

Remember this call is to set an appointment only.  Wait until the Leadership Conversation to share the benefits, qualification and what it can do or her/him.

So, now you’ve identified future leaders on your team, it’s time to make some calls to set up appointments.