Instead of solving all the problems that come our way, the best managers will use those problems as learning tools. They will guide their teams and share insights when it is required. This lets their team members to gain valuable experience and grow from it.
2. Empower team, not micromanage
Ideal managers give their team members the freedom they need. They allow them the freedom to explore ideas, take small risks and make mistakes. They will also provide the essential tools their team needs to succeed, and allow for flexible schedules and comfortable working environments.
3. Have an inclusive community/work culture
Google discovered that the best way to improve a team's performance was to create a psychologically safe environment. When teammates feel safe to take risks around team members, they won't be afraid of embarrassment or punishment for failure. A great team is always built upon trust.
4. Productive and result-oriented
The best managers don’t only strive to improve themselves, they strive to improve their teammates as well. They will set the right example and will get down and dirty when the situation requires it. They are not afraid to help out and motivate their team to always do better.
5. Good communicator — listens and shares information
The best managers are amazing listeners. They will try their best to understand their teams better, and show appropriate empathy. They also realize that knowledge is power, and are willing to share information and be transparent, to let their members know the “whys” behind the “whats.”
6. Supports career development and discusses performance
Great managers will always encourage their members by giving sincere and specific praise. They are also not afraid to give constructive criticism to help their members improve. They will invest in their people by helping them reach their personal career goals. By doing so, they naturally motivate their teams to give back as well.
7. Has a clear vision/strategy for the team
Great managers know exactly what a team needs to do, where they are, where they are headed and how to get there. Through good communication, they will keep their team on target. They also make sure each team member understands their individual role in executing that strategy perfectly.
8. Have key technical skills to advise the team
Great managers understand the jobs of their team members, including their everyday tasks and challenges. If the manager is moved into a new department, they will take the time to understand how things work, and build trust before making big changes and offering advice.
9. Collaborates effectively
Bad managers will capitalize on their team and improve themselves while putting down their members and maybe even sabotaging other teams within the same company. In contrast, great managers will see the big picture. They will work together for the good of the company as a whole and will encourage their team to do the same.
10. Strong decision-maker
Great managers make informed decisions. They will only decide after knowing the facts and thinking about the risks involved, and consulting with their team about it. When they have reached a conclusion, they will commit to those decisions.
