It’s not secret that the workplace needs good managers. People who can be more than just an overseer, but also a positive influence on employees are hard to come by. If your company is looking for great managers, look for employees who have these characteristics.
They are Leaders
Effective managers know that their jobs come with a lot of responsibility. They are able to self-motivate and be a motivator to others. Leaders help themselves and others to do the right things. They set direction, build an inspiring vision, and create something new. Leadership is about mapping out where you need to go to "win" as a team or an organization; and it is dynamic, exciting, and inspiring.
They Love Company Culture
Great leaders are those who are invested in the company’s culture. They focus on their team and put energy into building a workplace culture that everyone enjoys. Not only do they make an effort to actively engage each employee, they remain a cheerleader for engagement programs and team building opportunities.
The best managers are the ones to take company culture to heart. They are always working towards making the company better. Even when their job gets tough, they know how to keep people inspired and working together.
They are Great Communicators
A great manager needs to be able to communicate effectively. They also need to know how to communicate over different platforms. Managers should be able to speak and write professionally with correct grammar and appropriate tone. They should also be active listeners. Great managers listen to their employees, superiors, and customers, and acknowledge them.
Effective managers are confident without being arrogant. They know when to give instructions and when to ask for help. They communicate with their team and keep everyone well informed.
They are Respectful
Managers who don't respect your employees will cause tension in your workplace. Great managers are cognizant of their employee’s time and abilities. They are respectful of employee’s opinions and feedback. They express concern for employee needs and do what they can to mitigate issues.
They are Reliable
Managers expected to lead a team of employees must be reliable. This means they are available for their employees and get things done when they say they will. They support their team and keep their word.
They Lead with Their Head and with Their Heart
Empathy for employees is important. Everyone goes through professional and personal struggles that can affect their work. The best managers are emotionally intelligent; they can lead their employees and guide them with understanding.
The know how to manage their relationships between employees, supervisors, and customers. They are able to see situations from each perspective and make decisions with compassion and professionalism.
They are Accountable
A well-rounded manager takes charge of company goals and takes responsibility when things don’t go as planned. They foster responsibility and encourage their team to be responsible for their own actions as well. Managers who are accountable are not afraid to seek guidance from their own supervisors. They are passionate about their projects and do what needs to be done to get the job right even if it means being honest about making mistakes along the way.
They have Industry Experience
If the people leading your company do now have experience working in the industry, they aren’t going to be capable of getting the job done. Great managers have worked in the field and understand the challenges and changing landscape of their industry. They have experience doing the same jobs as their employees. They read about industry trends and understand what the future of their company. They are a knowledgeable resource for their employees and can offer advice, information, and important training.
They are Encouraging of Others
Excitement can be contagious. If a manager exudes a positive attitude and a passion for his or her work it can help keep morale high. Great managers know how to boost the spirit of their team and keep the energy high. They encourage their team to set goals and reach them! They use employee engagement techniques to keep their employees active and excited about the work they are doing. They also employ the use of recognition to show employees how much they are appreciated.
They are Hands On
Good managers lead people to do big things, but great managers help do the work! Rather than delegating job tasks and sitting back to watch their employees do the work, great managers are not afraid to get their hands dirty. Being a great leader means being part of the team and doing whatever it takes to get the job done.