Being an effective manager is no easy task. It’s a complex combination of technical, time management, and interpersonal skills. You have to be seen as authoritative, but also respected by your employees. Management can be honed through time with practice, just like any other professional task. Learn more about what successful managers have in common.

1. Communication

The benchmark of successful management is when employees know exactly what is expected of them and their current standings. Whether it’s deadlines, priorities, specific processes, or expected results, the best managers know how to communicate clearly to their employees so there is no room for misinterpretation. They never assume that anything is “obvious” and doesn’t need to be stated.

2. Teamwork

A productive working relationship between managers and employees is generally collaborative rather than authoritative. Instead of just barking out orders, top managers try to understand their employees’ perspectives and request their insights and ideas. Since managers are often removed from the lower level day-to-day tasks their employees perform, working as a team and including them in planning or asking for their feedback can also be helpful for you to learn about issues affecting productivity that you may not have realized.

3. Delegation

Micromanagement is the antithesis of successful management. Successful managers hire, train, and communicate well, in order to be able to relinquish full control and let their employees handle tasks, without needing to be involved in every part of the process. Delegating lower level tasks (with clear expectations) allows you as a manager to better utilize your time on higher level and big picture tasks.

4. Decision-Making

With power comes responsibility, so when there are questions or problems, it’s up to managers to make quick but informed decisions and handle the issues effectively. This requires self-confidence and the ability to research and carefully consider solutions with a timely turnaround. When issues arise, whether it’s determining priorities for employee workloads or dealing with interpersonal workplace conflict, consider key facts, goals, potential impact, and alternative solutions to help streamline and make your decision-making process objective.

5. Coaching

Successful managers understand the importance of investing in their employees’ professional growth, and not allowing themselves to get distracted by short-term needs. Taking the time to regularly coach your employees and help them improve and learn new skills is beneficial to you in the long run because they’re more likely to be engaged, loyal, and high performers.

Managers tend to only be as successful as they team they lead. Find top talent to join your team with the help of PrideStaff St. Louis. We’re an employment agency specialized in matching employers with the best candidates for their available positions. Contact PrideStaff St. Louis today to learn more.