While managerial positions are enticing for their benefits, pay, and prestige, there are several qualities that are necessary for someone to do the job well. Strong leadership lies at the heart of good management, but how does one become a dependable and effective leader? Here are the skills that you need to be a great manager today.
Communication
Good communication requires both active listening and open conversation. In order to bring your team together and produce the best possible work output, you need to be able to engage with them and have a shared understanding of how to reach your goals. You should be able to convey your expectations, feedback, and instructions with clarity.
Adaptability
Managers need to be able to handle any situation that is thrown their way so they can direct their teams to take the right action. Flexibility is especially important in current tumultuous times, and it’s crucial that you can handle stressful situations with grace and adapt as the situation needs.
Organization
In order to guide your team and help them meet the company’s goals, you must act systematically and plan thoroughly. Being able to delegate tasks, have a thorough plan of action, and follow a schedule are all necessary attributes for a competent manager.
Knowledge
You can’t guide a team without having a thorough understanding of the processes you all must carry out to reach your company’s goals. Being able to put yourself in your team’s shoes, and knowing exactly how they should and should not carry out certain tasks, leads to efficiency and ensures that you know the proper instructions to give.
Teamwork
While a manager is leading a team, a good manager knows how to bring their team together to problem solve, efficiently delegate tasks, and work as a well-oiled machine. While managers should be stern and assertive as needed, it is also important to cultivate a good rapport within your team.
For those interested in more in-depth leadership, we have several informational articles on learnings from industry leaders, thought leadership, and more! The John Clements Leadership Institute also dedicates itself to helping clients through our many corporate leadership programs.
