the Excellent Manager

I've been thinking a lot lately about what it is that defines an excellent manager.

Here are a few attributes of what I believe an excellent manager looks like. If you are a manager, I hope one or two of these will get you thinking about your own level of excellence.

The Excellent Manager...
She must understand business practices, often in a very detailed way rather than just the big picture, as these details often make the difference between success and failure. He must be able to represent the interests of his business unit to various constituents; clients (both internal and external), administrators, sponsors, other departments, etc. To represent his unit he must speak for them, he must think like them, live where they live, and breathe as they breathe. At the same time, she must think on a higher plane than her unit staff. She must reach higher, see farther, think broader. He thinks and acts for the good of the organization, not just his unit. He must at times make sacrifices for the greater good. He must care deeply for his employees.

She is equipper, motivator, mentor. He provides direction, respect, growth. She is proactive, strong, gracious. He is understanding, wise, patient. He knows where he is going. She truly leads her department. He uses win-win strategies. He recognizes talent. She identifies strengths. She sets clear expectations. He communicates effectively. She is able to give sincere praise because she knows what her employees are doing and sees the quality of their work. He is involved. He is willing and able to help. She provides vision. She listens. She appreciates.

Blessings, Kenneth Goudsward

Share this Article