The Manager Super Six

The Manager's Impact

Being a manager might just be the most important job in the office (shh, don't tell the boss!). You've got the power to make or break the team's productivity, so your role is a pretty big deal.

Effective management is like the wind beneath your team's wings. It gives them direction, motivation, and the support they need to take flight. When you communicate well, set achievable goals, and keep things running smoothly, your team can't help but thrive.

It's your leadership that sets the tone for how the work gets done. You help prioritize tasks, solve problems, and keep everyone focused on the prize. And when you do it well, your team performs at their best because they feel appreciated, guided, and motivated.

The Manager's Tightrope

Being a manager is a tricky tightrope walk between two equally important worlds. On one side, you've got the interpersonal stuff—communication, empathy, and keeping the peace. On the other hand, it's all about strategy, thinking big picture, and making tough calls.

Both skills are essential for being a boss, but the real art is balancing them. If you veer too far towards the people's side, you might lose focus and direction. But if you're all about the strategy, you could lose touch with your team and collaboration suffers.

It's a delicate equilibrium, this managerial juggling act. But when you get it right, it's a beautiful display of leadership. You've got to keep everyone happy and on track while keeping your eye on the ultimate prize.

The Essential Six

The essential six were determined through a ton of research that included conducting high performer interviews across numerous industries and scouring hundreds of recent articles published in academic and popular press databases. The findings were then validated so that we could be sure our management model reflected those competencies that make or break success in organizations. 

1. Communication

Communication skills are vital for conveying ideas effectively, while social awareness helps you navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. Managing relationships, business acumen, and sharp problem-solving abilities are also key aspects to master in the realm of successful management.

In the world of management, there's one golden rule, and that's all about communication. It's the oil that keeps the machine running smoothly. When you've got a team, keeping the lines of communication open is super important.

It's not just about telling people what to do; it's about explaining why and how. Making sure everyone understands what's expected of them and giving them feedback when they need it most keeps them on track.

And it's not a one-way street; you've also got to hear what your team has to say. Active listening is your superpower here, making sure you pick up on the nuances and really understand what's going on.

Every team is different, and managers need to adapt their style to each person and situation. It's about reading the room and knowing when a face-to-face chat is needed or an email will do. Effective communication is a manager's secret weapon, keeping everyone in the loop and engaged!

2. Social Awareness:

There's a lot more to management than numbers and reports; it's also about reading the room and understanding the people. Social awareness is your secret weapon, and it's got a few tricky skills hidden up its sleeve.

Firstly, it's about having empathy—putting yourself in others' shoes and understanding their feelings. When you do this, you build a bond of trust with your team that's unbreakable.

You also need to understand the office dynamics and politics, like a real-life game of Survivor. Knowing who's who and what's what helps you make informed decisions and navigate the trickiest of situations.

Body language is another clue you've got to read, like a manager's secret code. You can tell what people are really thinking, even when they say everything's fine. And in today's diverse workplace, appreciation of different cultures and backgrounds is a must. It's about creating a team where everyone feels included and respected.

When you've got these social skills in your arsenal, you're a manager who can adapt to any situation. You're like a chameleon, only way cooler!

3. Managing Relationships:

In the busy office world, relationships are everything, and managing them is a manager's side hustle. It's about creating a happy, collaborative team, and here's how you do it:

Collaboration is the name of the game. Encourage teamwork and get everyone working together, even outside their usual pairs. It's a great way to build trust and solve problems together.

Conflicts are inevitable, but it's how you handle them that counts. Being a manager means stepping in to save the day and finding solutions that work for everyone.

And don't forget the power of networking. It's not all about your team; you've got to schmooze with the big wigs and colleagues too. It's a great way to get resources and support when you need them.

When you work on these relationship skills, you're building a tight-knit, productive team. It's like conducting a beautiful orchestra, where everyone's in harmony!

4. Business Acumen:

To be a boss in the corporate world, you've got to think and act like a ninja, and that means having serious business acumen. It's your ability to navigate the tricky business landscape and come out on top.

First up, you need to understand the money stuff. Knowing your way around a balance sheet is crucial, so you can make smart decisions about the future. Keep an eye on those key performance indicators like a hawk, and you'll spot trouble or success from a mile away.

But it's not just about the here and now; strategic thinking is your time machine. It lets you forecast the future and prepare for what's ahead. Spot the opportunities others might miss, and have a plan for potential pitfalls.

Risk is a big part of business, so you've also got to be a bit of a gamble master. Calculate the risks and make moves that won't tank the whole operation.

And, of course, your communication skills need to be sharper than a suit's edge. You've got to sell your ideas, negotiate deals, and charm the pants off stakeholders.

Business acumen is like your corporate superpower. It'll help you stay ahead of the game and achieve success!

5. Role Modeling:

As a leader, your actions are like a lesson in themselves, which is a pretty powerful tool. It's all well and good to give advice and instructions, but when you lead by example, it's a whole new ballgame.

Self-management is a super skill to showcase to your team. When you're punctual, have high integrity, and work hard, you're showing your dedication and self-discipline. It's a subtle but mighty way to inspire your crew.

They see how you conduct yourself, and that sets the standard. If you're on time for meetings and deliver on your promises, they'll follow suit. This kind of role modeling creates a culture where everyone takes responsibility and ownership of their work.

6. Vision and Goal Setting:

Being a leader is about looking ahead and setting the course, and that's done with a powerful vision. It's your forecast for success, and it inspires the troops to follow.

Creating a vision is about seeing the future and setting SMART goals to get there. SMART means specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—a super formula for keeping everyone on track. When the path ahead is clear, your team knows where they're headed and what to aim for.

Involve your team in the goal-setting process, and it becomes a collaborative effort. When everyone has a say, they feel part of the journey and are more likely to buy into the plan.

Final Thoughts

Being a leader is a wild adventure, but it starts with understanding yourself and that all-important self-management. It's the first lesson in the leadership masterclass, and here's the takeaway: 

You've got to be your own boss before you can boss others around—I mean, guide them expertly! Self-management is your leadership foundation, keeping you steady when the going gets tough. With self-awareness and control, you lead with clarity and inspire others with your composure.

FAQs

1. How Can I Develop Self-Management Skills?

To develop self-management skills, start by setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, and creating a routine. Practice self-awareness, handle stress effectively, and seek feedback for growth. Stay organized, manage time wisely, and adapt to challenges with resilience.

2. Can Self-Management Be Learned or Is It Innate?

Self-management can be learned. By setting goals, prioritizing tasks, and practicing self-discipline, you can cultivate this skill. Consistent effort and self-awareness are key. With dedication, you will refine your self-management abilities over time.

3. Are There Specific Techniques to Improve Self-Management?

To improve self-management, start by setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, and creating a daily routine. Practice mindfulness, time blocking, and delegating when needed. Reflect on your progress regularly and be open to adjusting your strategies.