To demonstrate competence as you start in leadership, begin with the basics:
Work Hard: There is no substitute for a good work ethic. People respect someone who works hard.
Think Ahead: Because your decisions affect your team, beginning with the end in mind and identifying priorities are doubly important.
Demonstrate Excellence: The better you are at your job, the higher your initial credibility.
Follow Through: Good leaders bring things to completion.
From "Good Leaders Ask Great Questions" by John C. Maxwell