07/ 21/ 2004
by Vicki Gerson
How often have you seen this situation at your company? The clock ticks toward 5 p.m. and employees -- and even some management folks -- have one foot out the door. Or maybe employee turnover is higher then you'd like, and there seems to be a lack of professionalism on the job.
Why is this happening?
Today's employees care about many personal things outside the job. Also, you face many that do not have company loyalty while others feel secure in their actions because they think they will spend their life at one company. This is why it is crucial for you to hire an accomplished manager.
Who is a good choice? An individual who is highly respected by the employees in your organization and has the talent to handle increasing levels of responsibility and authority. This person’s talents are recognized by both the top brass and the average employee. This way, the manager has the cooperation of the employees, and consequently, the employees want to work hard for this individual.
Characteristics of a good manager:
A Problem Solver. A good manager can always figure out what needs to be done. This person is an innovative thinker and can usually see the pros and cons of each situation. Many times this individual has different scenarios in mind and can see how the problem can be tackled with various solutions.
Promotes Company Values. A good manager appreciates an organization's culture. In addition, this person illustrates the company's values and mission statement through their own job. As the employees under his or her direction see this, they too experience these values.
An Educator. The individual should be able to teach. You don’t want your company to be left behind in a changing marketplace, make sure the person you hire has patience to teach employees what they need to know. Also the individual should be willing to find new online courses or bring in consultants who can benefit the workforce.
Someone to Relate to. Your hire should have strong relationship-building skills. Many people leave their place of employment because they want to get away from their manager. This individual must be able to relate to your employees, work in a group and have great people skills.
A Talent Scout. The person who becomes the manager should have an eye for talent. When hiring new people for your company, your manager should be able to work well with the human resources department to be involved in the selection process.
A Team Player. A good manager of choice makes sure that all employees see themselves as the members of a team. That team is working for one common goal: the betterment of the company. This goal is accomplished through creating new ideas, selling your products or providing excellent customer service.
By hiring an accomplished manager, you will improve your business in a number of ways. You may receive recognition from the media due to an innovating management structure, improved employee satisfaction or increased company productivity. But even if you don't catch the media’s eye, the important people – your employees – will notice. What you will achieve is a strong employee base for your company. You will keep a high level, creative talent pool all overseen by a top-knotch manager.
