What Great Managers Do Differently?

What do great managers do differently? Depending on what career field you are in, will cause you to answer differently than others. Regardless of your answer, the simple truth is there are three distinct traits that makes someone a great manager.

First off, great managers are good listeners. They allow their employees time to talk, while they sit back and listen. Through being a good listener, it will give you great communication skills. Resist the urge to speak your opinion or add your two senses while the employee is talking. Great managers don’t have to convince you they are great.

Wondering how to be a great manager? Click here.

Secondly, great managers get their hands dirty when they need to. They will not give you work that they would not do themselves. I once had a manager that said, “If I ask you to go pick up trash on the side of the road, you bet I will be there right beside you also picking up the trash.”, and I truly believe this person would. They follow through on their word and help where needed.

Lastly, good managers stand by their team. They are not easily influenced by “he said she said” type of behavior because they have most likely gotten the chance to know their team well enough to trust they will do the right thing. Great managers don’t give into drama or rumors, instead they defend. I had a boss who always thought what they heard me, and my coworker do was true, so this manager always came in asking us why we did it rather than asking for our side of the story. Other people in other departments will notice this behavior of your manager too.

Read 8 Traits of a Great Manager here!

If your boss falls into these categories, you’re lucky. Most of us must have a lot of experience before we get the chance to have a great manager. They are out there, but most are hard to find.

Have thoughts? Let me know!