The list of qualities a good manager should have is exhaustive (to say the least), and would probably take quite some time to read, so we've saved you the trouble and picked out ten of the best Qualities of a Good Manager.
Here they are:
1. Communication Skills
This includes both written and spoken communication, including public speaking. A good manager understands the importance of clear communication, meaning that his or her instructions are always specific and unambiguous, presentations are always well prepared and delivered and feedback is constructive, frequent and effective.
2. Self-Motivation
As the manager the onus is on you to motivate your team - this is simply not going to happen if you are unable to motivate yourself. Maintaining a positive outlook is vital, especially on the bleaker days.
3. Flexibility
"The only constant is change." This saying, make of it what you will, is particularly relevant to management. One thing you can be certain of as a manager is that you will be required to adapt to change regularly and without warning - how well you adapt to this change is what is important.
4. Delegation
Managers with a "I'm the only one who can do this task properly" attitude soon learn that that's the quickest way to go crazy with stress. Part of being a good manager is learning to trust your team enough to delegate work to them, as well as knowing when and what to delegate.
5. Industry Knowledge
It is essential for a good manager to keep on top of industry related news and developments, both so s/he can work more effectively in his or her industry and also to facilitate better networking and relationship building,
6. Confidence
Managers are decision-makers. This means a manager needs to be able to make decisions with confidence, lead with confidence and stand by his or her convictions. Any team would find difficulty working with a manager who seems unpredictable and unsure of himself, just as conversely teams as a whole become more confident with a strong leader.
7. Reliability
Are you dependable? Can your team, including juniors and superiors, rely on you? This is a vital trait that any good manager should have.
8. Mediation
As a manager you will be required to resolve disputes in the workplace. Are you capable of remaining objective? Can you smooth over issues before they turn into disputes?
9. Implementing Training
A good manager improves his workforce (both as a whole and individually) by implementing training to increase skill sets, improve cohesion among workers and tackle relevant problems within the workplace. Not only does training create a more skilled workforce but it also boosts morale.
10. Organisation
Being organised, in terms of projects, your staff, goals etc. is important for any manager. Without organisation you will be unable to plan effectively, execute goals or measure you success/failure.
Staff Training is presenting Developing Your Management Potential I in Johannesburg (Randburg) on the 5th of February. Enquire at info@StaffTraining.co.za or call (021) 839 3021 for more information.