Top 10 Qualities of an Excellent Manager
An excellent manager taps into talents and resources in order to support and bring out the best in others. An outstanding manager evokes possibility in others.
1. Creativity
Creativity is what separates
competence from excellence. Creativity is the spark that propels
projects forward and that captures peoples' attention. Creativity
is the ingredient that pulls the different pieces together into
a cohesive whole, adding zest and appeal in the process.
2. Structure
The context and structure
we work within always have a set of parameters, limitations and
guidelines. A stellar manager knows how to work within the structure
and not let the structure impinge upon the process or the project.
Know the structure intimately, so as to guide others to effectively
work within the given parameters. Do this to expand beyond the
boundaries.
3. Intuition
Intuition is the capacity
of knowing without the use of rational processes; it's the cornerstone
of emotional intelligence. People with keen insight are often
able to sense what others are feeling and thinking; consequently,
they're able to respond perfectly to another through their *deeper
understanding. * The stronger one's intuition, the stronger manager
one will be.
4. Knowledge
A thorough knowledge
base is essential. The knowledge base must be so ingrained and
integrated into their being that they become *transparent, *
focusing on the employee and what s/he needs to learn, versus
focusing on the knowledge base. The excellent manager lives from
a knowledge base, without having to draw attention to it.
5. Commitment
A manager is committed
to the success of the project and of all team members. S/he holds
the vision for the collective team and moves the team closer
to the end result. It's the manager's commitment that pulls the
team forward during trying times.
6. Being Human
Employees value leaders
who are human and who don't hide behind their authority. The
best leaders are those who aren't afraid to be themselves. Managers
who respect and connect with others on a human level inspire
great loyalty.
7. Versatility
Flexibility and versatility are valuable qualities in a manager.
Beneath the flexibility and versatility is an ability to be both
non-reactive and not attached to how things have to be. Versatility
implies an openness this openness allows the leader to
quickly *change on a dime* when necessary. Flexibility and versatility
are the pathways to speedy responsiveness.
8. Lightness
A stellar manager doesn't
just produce outstanding results; s/he has fun in the process!
Lightness doesn't impede results but rather, helps to move the
team forward. Lightness complements the seriousness of the task
at hand as well as the resolve of the team, therefore contributing
to strong team results and retention.
9. Discipline/Focus
Discipline is the ability
to choose and live from what one pays attention to. Discipline
as self-mastery can be exhilarating! Role model the ability to
live from your intention consistently and you'll role model an
important leadership quality.
10. Big Picture, Small Actions
Excellent managers see
the big picture concurrent with managing the details. Small actions
lead to the big picture; the excellent manager is skillful at
doing both: think big while also paying attention to the details.
Jan Gordon, LCSW is an Executive and Personal Coach who finds great joy in helping her clients achieve outstanding results! Ms. Gordon provides coaching to individuals and teams who are dedicated to enhancing their personal power and sense of fulfilment. Her coaching embraces the concept that challenge provides opportunity. Visit her website at: www.qualitycoaching.com. Jan can reached at jan@qualitycoaching.com
Copyright © 2002 by
Jan Gordon. All Rights Reserved. This content may be forwarded only in full, with copyright/bio/contact/creation information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Jan Gordon is required.
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