“How to get the job done: In the best organizations, the best people are those who are willing to accept and perform the jobs that others have just come to assume. They are also quick to criticize and are eager for an argument to be turned around. They are great problem-solvers and problem-solving professionals. Managers have a knack for getting things done. But how do you become one?”
Characteristics
While it is true that every successful manager will possess some of these characteristics, only some will actually be effective in becoming one. Just as it would be foolish to try and box-lock a talented athlete in a ring with a pole, it would be foolish to try and mold a talented team of managers into a successful team. The development of skills, knowledge, and experience varies from individual to individual. While some individuals may have natural talent in particular, most managers must work on their skills throughout their careers. A common thread between successful people is that they continually strive to learn new things and take on new opportunities.
Managers must also continually recognize the strengths of their team members. All great leaders know that there are inherent weaknesses in their teams. However, the successful leaders understand that it is important to recognize their team’s talents while at the same time building a stronger and deeper understanding of their weaknesses. By doing so, they gain a deeper understanding of each person’s unique personality and capabilities, giving them the insight necessary to help guide their teams toward future success.
Leaders also learn to lead by example. While no one can force another to do what must be done, it is possible to motivate your team by example. Those who exhibit good leadership skills are encouraged to lead by example, and this extends to their subordinates. Effective managers develop a positive working attitude so that everyone in the team has the same potential to achieve. Those who develop a negative working attitude in no way inspire any confidence within their staff. If a manager displays the right attitude, he or she will be able to lead by example and provide a great deal of success to his or her team.
Most importantly, effective managers learn to manage change. Even though management does not come into contact with many outside forces during their daily operations, they are forced to make quick decisions based on limited information. These decisions often mean making split second decisions that have long term effects. As a result, many managers need extensive training to effectively handle change. In fact, it is not uncommon for some managers to spend an entire career developing the skills necessary to effectively handle change.
Finally, effective leaders realize that it takes passion to become a successful leader. Just as it’s important for managers to develop effective leadership styles, leaders must also understand what it takes to succeed at becoming one. In essence, leaders need to continually educate themselves about effective leadership. They must also take the time to develop personal leadership skills such as how to motivate others and how to lead by example. By understanding the importance of these three basic elements of leadership, anyone can see that three skills do managers develop through experience and education?
