Better Managers

The work of managers influences practically every aspect of human experience in the 21st century – sometimes for good but sometimes creating misery.

What’s interesting is that while being a good people manager can be tough and challenging, it isn’t always complicated.

Two sources to consider:

• Research conducted by The Table Group found anonymity to be a nail in engagement’s coffin. Employees want to be known. Fortunately, it does not take an advanced degree or a week-long management development seminar for someone to be able to say “Tell me about yourself.”
• A recent Harvard Business Review article lays out what great managers do daily which includes leading by example and spending time one-on-one with direct reports. Again, not nuclear physics or brain surgery.

Polly Watts, owner of The Avenue Pub in New Orleans, spoke with me about growing the bar she took over from her dad into a craft beer destination that is regularly recognized as one of the best in the country. Building relationships has been and continues to be an important key to her success. Polly’s fascinating story of a middle-aged soccer mom turned beer aficionado and remarkable manager will be featured in my new series, Managers Extraordinaire: What They Do, starting in January.

My business celebrated five years in 2016 and as I reflect on this, I realize that my work and what I believe can be summed up in two words: better managers. I support organizations in developing their people and coach individuals to become better managers. I coach career clients who are either looking to work for better managers or starting their own business and therefore need to be better managers.

Better managers make a better world.

What is your experience with managing and managers? Would love to hear what you think. Please share in the comments section below.