5 Responses: What Makes a Manager Great?

For this week's newsletter I wanted to do something different.

I called upon 5 friends whom I respect and admire to answer the question:

"What makes a manager great?"

There is no right answer, but if companies truly want to know what type of training their managers need, listen up.

"To me, a great manager is someone who not only cares about outcomes, but how the team gets there and feels along the way. A manager who allows an open channel of communication and space for feedback shows their compassion for their employees' wellbeing which is extremely valuable for retention. Every employee has different needs and a manager who recognizes that and adapts their style to reflect that, is a great leader in my book."

Samantha (Souder) Marks

"A great manager empowers their team to take ownership of their individual roles. Through their leadership, they cultivate excellence in others that not only benefits the organization, but also enhances a sense of personal meaning for their team members. It's more than delegation or inspiration, it is grace and growth, logic and empathy. They are non-dualistic thinkers who see people and problems in shades of gray, adapting their responses and expectations accordingly."

Kelly Schmidt

"A great manager consciously creates a team environment built on trust, empathy, and development, leading to a positive impact on both the individuals and the company.

They take full responsibility for creating a positive experience for their team, which is the key driver of employee engagement and long-term success for the company.

Incredible effort and time is spent learning what motivates, worries and drives each unique individual reporting to them.

They ruthlessly prioritize taking great care of their people, acting more like a coach than an authoritarian.

Their main mission is always to ensure that every member feels supported, understood, and valued for their contributions to the company."

Christie Hoffman

In my view, a great manager:

• Creates clarity
• Removes friction
• Aligns team goals/work to company mission
• Fosters an environment of learning + growth
• Models company values and upholds the standard

Teddy Mitrosilis

"The best managers are known for doing two things?and doing them exceptionally well. 1) Delivering results?and 2) helping?their people become successful. They demonstrate the right combination of warmth and competence."

Ali Merchant

Each of these leaders make valid points and if you want to be a great manager you need to listen to feedback in order to get better.

I remember reading the feedback from my team and it motivated me to keep doing what works and quit doing what didn't.

What you'll find in common from the above answers is soft skills are always mentioned when describing a great manager.

That's why I focus tirelessly on helping managers become leaders through soft skills.

If you want the managers at your company to reach the standards of these testimonials message me or visit scottasai.com

In your opinion, what makes a manager great?

Please share your answer in the comments!