What’s the difference between a good boss and an outstanding one? Why is it that some managers can seemingly get their teams to accomplish anything, while others get only the bare minimum out of theirs? The difference is that effective leaders have developed skills that help them to relate to their employees, motivate them, and inspire their loyalty. These managers also have the communication and interpersonal skills required to relate to and lead others. To learn more, check out eight skills that any good manager should possess.
1. [/b]The Ability to Create Consensus[/b]
In a perfect world, team members would agree on all of the important issues, and conflict would simply not exist. Unfortunately, any time a group of people come together, there is going to be disagreement. These may be personal, or project related. In any case, if they are allowed to fester, morale drops and so does productivity.
A good manager is able to recognize when a conflict among team members is happening. Then, they are able to use their skills, help those resolve the conflict in a way that satisfies everyone. Bosses don’t accomplish this by making unilateral decisions or picking one side over the other though. Instead, they team members to communicate productively, build consensus, and come to an agreement that is beneficial to all.
2. [/b]Empowering Employees And Creating Leaders[/b]
Authoritarian managers are often very good at getting projects done on time and in budget. Unfortunately, they tend to be less effective when it comes to employee development. This is because employees working under bosses who take this approach don’t feel empowered to make decisions on their own. Instead, they simply wait for their next set of orders.
On the other hand, an authoritative boss is able to establish and maintain authority without taking such a draconian approach. Because of this, their underlings feel empowered. They are more likely to act, for example, on their own to solve a problem with a customer. They are also better equipped to take leadership roles on projects, engage in creative problem solving, and share their ideas.
3. [/b]Delivering Praise And Criticism Effectively[/b]
Highly skilled managers know how to deliver both criticism and praise in ways that work. If they must deliver criticism, they do it privately. However, in addition to this, they also word their criticism in a way that the team member doesn’t feel as if they are on the receiving end of a personal attack. Finally, criticism is delivered along with clear instructions on how to improve in the future or avoiding repeating the same mistake.
It might seem difficult to imagine praise being delivered incorrectly, but managers often make the mistake of delivering praise that is gushy or non descriptive. Effect managers deliver praise that is specific, and detailed. This lets the employee know the precise behavior or decision that helped them earn the positive accolades.
4. [/b]Excellent Written Communications Skills[/b]
We now live in a global economy. Because of this, manages often have to communicate effectively with team members spread across multiple geographic locations. Because of this, and other reasons, emails, messaging, and other written forms of communication are common means of reaching out to others. An outstanding manager can use their written skills to communicate what they need to, just as easily as they can communicate verbally. If you are a manager who wants to develop better writing skills, consider visiting an essay writing service. You can get help with editing, proofreading, and plenty of advice on becoming a more effective writer.
5. [/b]Willingness to Stand up For Their Team[/b]
Managers who earn the respect of the people working for them are willing to stand up for them. They go to bat for their employees when they are the target for unfair blame or criticism. They ensure that they have the training and support that they need. They help them to navigate situations where they are struggling.
Not only do these leaders earn the respect of their team members, their employees are often intensely loyal. This kind of support is key when it comes to developing teams that are willing to work hard and go the extra mile.
6. [/b]Listens to Their Teams[/b]
Great leaders don’t take pride in being the smartest person in the room. Instead, they see their best asset as their ability to assemble teams of smart people, and then giving those people the freedom and empowerment to do what they do best. Part of this is recognizing that their team members have expertise that they do not, and listening to their suggestions and ideas.
7. [/b]Shows an Interest in Employees[/b]
Bosses who lead great teams almost always show an interest in the lives of their employees. They ask them about their goals, hobbies, and families. Then, they actually listen to the answers. By knowing the things that are going on in their employees lives, and knowing their goals, managers can lead their team members much more effectively. In turn, employees recognize sincere empathy and interest. This motivates them to work even harder for their boss.
8. [/b]Sets High Expectations For Themselves And Their Employees[/b]
Outstanding leaders set very high expectations for their employees. They demand hard work, and when required, long hours. The difference between outstanding leaders and mediocre bosses is that leaders are willing to jump in and work just as hard. They never ask their people to give any more than they do. This boots on the ground leadership goes a long way towards fostering a sense of team, and motivating workers to give even more.
Conclusion[/b]
The best managers are great communicators. They show an interest in their employees professional development. They lead by example, and are willing to go to bat for the people who work for them. They make sure their employees are empowered to speak up, share ideas, and solve problems without constant supervision. As a result, their employees repay them with hard work, loyalty, and willingness to use their talents to ensure that team projects are completed successfully.