The 15 Qualities Of Good Managers

Leading in today’s world is not easy. Organisations want managers who build trust and loyalty in their people, demonstrate by example, and who create a culture of good communication, positivity, and mutual support. So what exactly are the 'good manager' qualities you need to cultivate? Here are fifteen.

The top 15 'good manager' qualities:

The best managers...

1. Instill confidence

Average managers may be confident about their own abilities and decisions, but great managers instill confidence in their teams. They help their people lose self-doubt, trust their own instincts, and take action without waiting for the manager’s approval. They also praise examples of independent initiative or unconventional thinking in their teams, so as to build morale and confidence.

2. Don’t lose focus

It’s easy to lose sight of the target when there is a lot of stress and uncertainty in the environment. Excellent managers don’t let day-to-day issues deter them from focusing on the core result. This kind of laser-focus can be honed through clear thinking, and exercises such as meditation and journaling.

3. Empower and delegate

Another quality of good managers is that they do not accumulate all the power for themselves; they know that empowering others does not diminish their own power. One example of empowerment is delegating authority according to each employee’s abilities and skills.

4. Set a good example

To be an amazing manager, you must practice what you preach – whether it is ethical business practices, good communication, work-life balance, etc. Great managers always encourage putting ideas and theories into practice. They don’t simply discuss ideas, but they implement them without fear of failure.

5. Work on strengths and weaknesses

Leaders with good manager qualities know each team member’s strengths and weaknesses. And they work with each colleague to maximise their strengths and improve on their weaknesses.

6. Believe in the importance of taking breaks

If you know the importance of taking regular breaks to combat overworking, and monotony, you’re a step closer to becoming a great manager. Encourage your people to take breaks and rejuvenate so that they can come back to work recharged.

7. Believe in positive thinking

Another quality of good managers is that they know how much positive thinking impacts individual and team output. They go the extra mile to ensure their team isn’t demotivated by failures and help the latter develop a positive outlook towards their work.

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8. Genuinely care for employees

This involves listening to employee grievances, taking feedback positively, and being sensitive to their issues. Progressive leaders do what is needed to create a healthy and happy workplace for their employees.

9. Value communication

Clear and concise communication is key to getting a job done efficiently. This includes providing precise details about the work and clearly stating the expectations. Only then can a job be done to perfection. And an extraordinary manager knows that.

10. Share wins and losses

Just as it is important to share the credit for each win, it is equally crucial to take accountability for mistakes and errors. Doing so builds a stronger team and helps in rapid growth. To become a great leader, take your fair share of the blame.

11. Encourage upskilling

Good manager qualities like upskilling help you and your team to stay relevant in the market. Encouraging upskilling supports a growth mindset in the team and provides your colleagues with the necessary tools to excel in their careers.

12. Accept mistakes as a part of life

We all make mistakes. But only great managers forgive the mistakes of their employees and inculcate in them the belief that mistakes are a part of growth, learning, and life.

13. Encourage experimenting

Managers who actually make a difference don’t stick to tried-and-tested paths. Experimenting may sometimes lead to more failures, surely, but they can also take you to greater achievements.

14. Nurture the team

Good managers invest quality time and resources in nurturing their teams. Only when all team members are on the same page does the team truly prosper. Mentoring your people, and giving them autonomy and flexibility are ways to nurture the team.

15. Believe in the greater good

Above all, the topmost quality of a good manager is a generous vision. They know that even small good deeds make a big difference. Organising charity drives for causes that employees feel deeply about, or coming together to support colleagues working through issues are some examples of investing in the greater good.

We hope this list was helpful in delineating the quality differences between average and good managers. For more such interesting leadership content, keep reading the Manah Wellness blog.