Jmho, it takes awhile to find yourself in a tl role.... You do not get to pick your role, even if there is only one opening, they may move someone else to get what they view as the best person for the job. My store had hinted at one position for me, then it became something completely different then a move to the original option several months later. Looking back my store made the right choice.
As far as gstl, ive done it some, it forces you to grow a backbone and be orgainized. Think about how others have done your position, rely on your fellow tls for advice & help.