How To Improve My Managerial Skills
Managers are the drivers and hence understandably, the stakes are high with occasional bouquets and plenty of brickbats. But managing a team isn't a cakewalk, rather a difficult ballgame. Whether you like it or not, you’re the centre of attention with people reporting to you and more the number, the tougher it’s for you. Your team will behave like you; if you’re hard-working, investing hours and working meticulously, the team does that. And if you’re lax, you encourage the same unfortunately.
In effect, a manager leads by example and his/her
team reflects the work ethics and standards set by him/her. With some
good work, the manager can win the respect and trust of his team and
win recognition from the company. In today’s rat-race, it is important
to get work done and at the same time, be amiable and liked. Many
managers are often at their wits end, not knowing how to better
themselves. To make yourself a better manager, here are some key points:
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Share the vision: Keep the team on the same plane, and everything should be transparent within the team. If someone’s a slow picker, help him/her to come up to the same level. The vision or the goal has to be understood by everyone and you should translate the tactics for execution. As a manager, make sure that the vision is implemented and not just remains on paper. No one will tell you how to go about with the team. So, get your act together to serve as the facilitator empowering the members and inspiring them with knowledge for their work to contribute for the product.
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Always manage across, not down: Classical managing style days are passé. You'll be more appreciated if you do what the team does; showing willingness to help them when there’s a deadline instead of forcing them to work. Remember, effective delegation is a part of managing and the way you give instructions matters. Learn each member’s strength and what each one does without being bossy. Thus, you can effectively work out how things can be effected. Also, sit with the team during obstacles giving suggestions. Spend time understanding the dynamics of stress related to achieving daily goals. Remember, problems are tackled better if they’re spotted before they happen.
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Manage your responsibilities: People reporting to you are important. So managing them well is your responsibility. Your work isn’t just to see projects well-executed and getting the work done, but essentially the team must be happy under you and if the team isn’t happy, it’s unfortunate. So, you’ve to find out the reasons for their unhappiness and giving feedback is your responsibility. Try and highlight the good work as also discuss the mistakes so that they’re never repeated. And most importantly, criticism of self should come before others. Do that objectively and itself is exemplary. Ensure criticism is well-thought and constructive.
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Keep the element of fun: All work and no play will make your team dull. So have some fun element. Go out for team lunches, share some jokes and learn to laugh at yourself at times. That ways, you will not belittle yourself yet, your team will be happy. Share a personal rapport with each member and celebrate birthdays and other occasions if possible, adding some more fun.
Remember the team is your family and you’re the
head. Your happiness depend on theirs. Their well-being should also be
your motive. Though most managers feel that their job is often a
thankless one, these tips will help you to transform yourself from a
manager to a more amiable and effective manager.
