Becoming a manager is a very common career goal. This role is a necessary step in working towards a position of responsibility. However, being a good manager means acquiring a strong knowledge base, as well as adopting the right attitude and getting extensive experience. At business school, you are taught the necessary techniques, then it is up to you to promote your skills. This involves three essential qualities.
An optimistic state of mind
As a manager, you have a duty to set an example. Your role is to ensure that your team is a reflection of what you stand for. A manager with a positive approach motivates their team and as a consequence, gets good results. You should never let your mood changes show, as difficult as this might sometimes be. You are also the image of your company, and it is up to you to motivate your team and maintain a positive atmosphere among your employees. Your dynamic nature and your image as a leader will push your team to invest themselves in their tasks and keep up their motivation.
Being a reference
In a team, the manager is a reference, the one people can turn to when they have a problem. You are the main point of contact for your employees, you therefore must know how to meet their needs. You will also often act as an intermediary between executive management and your team. You must always be able to provide clear, precise answers, requiring sound skills. A manager must always boost their team, offering well thought-out solutions to give them a sense of responsibility and help them to move forward. You need to be more than just spare wheel, offering quick-fix solutions.
Having a strong personality
At business school, you will learn that the role of manager is not a relaxing one. You will need strong determination and nerves of steel. You will be at the very heart of the team, providing a service to management, and in charge of a group of people. You will pass on all information with full transparency, even things that can be difficult for the team to hear: staffing decisions, sales objectives, etc. Conversely, you will act as spokesperson for your team in communicating with management, promoting your projects and dealing with unexpected situations in your role on a daily basis. Being a good manager means having a strong character under pressure, not being afraid to say things, and to hear things.
