What makes a good manager?

shmeeko69

LittleMrsThrifty wrote: »

Hi All

I start a new job next week in which I'll be managing a team. I have management experience but it's a bigger team than I've managed previously (although still relatively small) and an established team; they have all been there a while so I'll be the newbie.

I've been thinking about how to appropach my first few weeks and wondered what people think makes a good manager? If anyone has any tips I'd be very grateful... :j

It's quite difficult to answer that question accurately, but as a manager you're primary goal is to manage the team. Getting to know the personality of each member of staff at the earliest opportunity is crucial and stay away from gossip. Developing a firm but fair approach should get you the respect which will carry you through.

Sasha101

There has been some really helpful advice on here. I'll definitely be referring back here for tips no doubt as a newbie manager now I've crossed over to the dark side.

Miss_Havisham wrote: »

7. Watch out for an "informal leader", i.e. a member of your staff who commands the respect of the others and who might not be committed to the company or is cynical about you. Get them on-side so you can use them as a way of indirectly influencing the team. Such people can be powerful allies or enemies in a large team.

Miss H

These types in my opinion are the most difficult to work with or manage. I would love to know their secret of how they influence others as they are certainly not the most popular member of staff. They have a negative vibe and seem to thrive on causing as much disruption to staff morale as possible. They always seem so miserable as everything is seen as a battle to them, it's a wonder why they even bother to get out of bed in the morning!