How To Be A Better Manager
April 13th, 2009 | Mel Koumides
Many words are spoken and many books are written about how to be a better manager. While there is no definitive method, good management practices can be taught and learned. These practices revolve around five simple tips. These are not commandments but rather commonsense ways to improve your management practices and improve the performance of your enterprise.
1. Lead like you would like to be lead
As a manager, you should never be afraid to ask or learn. You cannot possibly know everything, and your staff may have ideas on how to improve the way things are done. Also remember to manage as you would like to be managed. Try to put yourself into your staff’s shoes when you speak to them.
2. Keep up-to-date on your industry
Always keep up-to-date on changes in the industry and new regulations that may have an effect, both for you and your competition. Many companies have failed due to a lack of understanding of the environment in which they operate.
3. Be involved
Similarly, keep yourself informed on the running of your business. Managing from a locked office is like managing in the dark. You see no one, but even worse, no one sees you. You may end up relying on information relayed by a few people while they majority are ignored.
4. Be customer focused
Customers form the base of your business. If you have no customers, you will have no business. Sometimes you need to remember that paperwork can wait, but your customer may not.
5. Give praise when it’s deserved
People respond well to recognition of a job well-done. Don’t forget to give praise, thanks and recognition to staff who deserve it. Staff may find this of greater value than money.
These points will not cover everything, but they will allow you to have a better understanding of the problems and look intelligently for solutions.