Surprising tips on being a good manager

Being a manager is a bit like being a juggler at a circus – except instead of balls, you're tossing around deadlines, meetings, and the occasional office drama. One minute you're motivating your team to greatness, the next you're trying to remember if you actually ate lunch. (Spoiler: You didn’t.)

Great leadership isn’t just about giving orders and keeping spreadsheets in check. It’s about inspiring, adapting, and sometimes even admitting that you don’t have all the answers. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just stepping into your first management role, this article will offer practical, unexpected, and maybe even slightly entertaining tips to help you become the kind of manager people actually like working for.

Now, let’s dive in and uncover what really makes a manager great – beyond just a fancy title and a never-ending inbox.

The surprising qualities of a great manager

While foundational skills are crucial, there are lesser-known traits that can elevate a manager from good to great.

Vulnerability as a leadership strength

Many managers believe that showing vulnerability is a sign of weakness, but the opposite is true. When leaders admit their mistakes, acknowledge challenges, and express their humanity, they build trust within their teams. When employees see their leader as a real, relatable human instead of a corporate robot, they’re far more likely to open up and actually talk – no forced small talk about the weather required.

The art of delegation: because you’re not an octopus

One of the most typical mistakes managers make is micromanaging their teams. Effective delegation is a skill that empowers employees, fosters innovation, and increases efficiency. Trusting your team members with responsibilities not only boosts morale but also allows managers to focus on strategic planning rather than getting caught up in day-to-day tasks. Traits of a good manager include recognizing that leadership isn’t about hoarding control – it’s about stepping back, trusting the team, and letting their skills take center stage.

Humor and positivity in the workplace

Laughter might not be in your professional profile, but it should be. A welcoming workplace culture isn’t just about revenue – it’s about keeping morale high and meetings bearable. Managers who sprinkle in humor (the good kind, not the awkward dad jokes… okay, maybe a few) create a relaxed, collaborative environment where creativity thrives. Light-hearted moments, appropriate workplace jokes, and even the use of memes or emojis can make the workplace feel less rigid and more welcoming.

How to be a better leader and manager through actionable steps

Becoming a better manager isn’t a one-and-done deal – it’s an ongoing journey of self-reflection, learning, and the occasional “Oh wow, I could’ve handled that better” moment. Here are some easy tips to help you get better at leadership.

Setting clear expectations and providing feedback

Ambiguity in leadership can lead to disputes and reduced productivity. Crystal-clear goals and expectations give employees a roadmap instead of a guessing game, helping them stay on track and actually know what success looks like. Regular feedback – whether it’s a handshake for a job well done or a subtle course correction – keeps motivation high and growth on point. Qualities of a manager include setting clear objectives and providing constructive critiques.

When it comes to senior-level employees, defining the right objectives is even more critical. If you want to retain top talent, take a look at this guide on setting goals for senior positions to make sure you’re keeping your best employees engaged and motivated.

Building a culture of trust and accountability

Trust is the bedrock of any successful team. When managers lead with integrity, follow through on promises, and treat employees with respect, they cultivate a culture of accountability. Encouraging open discussion and providing a safe space for honest communication are key components of this process. How to be a great manager? It’s all about creating a place where employees feel confident sharing ideas, taking ownership, and knowing their contributions actually matter.

Continuous learning and adaptability

The workplace is constantly evolving, and successful managers must keep up with new trends, technologies, and management strategies. Whether it’s through professional development courses, networking, or mentorship, investing in continuous learning allows managers to stay ahead of the curve and navigate changes with confidence. Characteristics of a good manager include the ability to evolve and adapt to industry shifts.

The workplace is constantly evolving, and staying informed is key to being an effective manager. Keeping up with the industry Calamari blog can help managers learn about emerging trends, leadership strategies, and innovative tools for managing teams effectively.

What makes a good project manager? Key insights for success

Project management requires a unique set of skills that differ from general team leadership. Managing timelines, stakeholders, and shifting priorities demands precision and resilience.

Mastering time management and prioritization

A successful project manager knows how to distribute tasks effectively. Utilizing tools like Gantt charts, project management software, and time-blocking techniques can help ensure that deadlines are met without overwhelming team members.

Smart managers know that using the right tools can make a world of difference in how efficiently teams operate. Integrating Slack with HR and time-tracking software can help keep everyone on the same page without constant check-ins. Learn more about how Calamari’s Slack integration can simplify leave management and time tracking.

Effective communication with stakeholders

Managing a project isn’t just about guiding a team – it’s also about keeping stakeholders informed and engaged. Clear, concise, and transparent communication ensures alignment across all levels of an organization, minimizing misunderstandings and ensuring that project goals are met efficiently.

Project managers and team leaders often find themselves drowning in emails, trying to keep everyone aligned. But overloading inboxes isn’t the answer – leveraging tools like Slack can streamline communication and boost productivity. If you’re investigating how to cut through email chaos, this article on managing teams through Slack has some great insights.

Handling challenges with resilience and creativity

Unexpected challenges are inevitable in any project. The ability to stay calm under pressure, think creatively, and pivot when necessary is what distinguishes a strong project manager from an average one. Developing problem-solving skills and fostering a resilient mindset – they’re the secret weapons of long-term success.

Manager strengths: transforming weaknesses into opportunities

Every manager has areas that could use improvement, but recognizing weaknesses can be a powerful advantage. By identifying personal leadership gaps, managers can proactively work toward self-improvement.

For example, if a manager struggles with public speaking, seeking training or practice opportunities can turn this weakness into a strength. Likewise, if delegation feels challenging, setting incremental goals for assigning tasks can make the transition smoother.

FAQ about being a Good Manager

Managing people is never a one-size-fits-all approach, and even experienced managers face new challenges every day. Curious about what truly makes an effective leader? Here are some of the most common questions – answered with insight and a touch of real-world wisdom.

What are the essential qualities of a good manager?

A great manager isn’t just a walking to-do list – they're a mix of a skilled communicator, a mind reader (a.k.a. empathetic leader), a quick thinker who rolls with the punches, and an inspiration factory that keeps the team moving forward. The best managers balance technical expertise with emotional intelligence.

How can I improve as a manager?

Improving as a manager requires continuous learning, seeking feedback, and being open to change. Engaging in leadership training, reading management books, and actively working on interpersonal skills can make a significant difference.

What makes a manager effective in leading diverse teams?

An effective manager values diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment. This includes actively listening to different perspectives, addressing biases, and ensuring that all team members feel valued and heard.

How can I balance empathy with authority?

Balancing empathy with authority involves leading with compassion while maintaining clear boundaries and expectations. Empathy helps build strong relationships, while firm decision-making ensures stability and direction for the team.

What are the greatest challenges for new managers?

New managers often struggle with delegation, time management, and earning the trust of their teams. Overcoming these challenges takes a mix of patience, self-awareness, and the willingness to treat every misstep as a lesson rather than a setback.

Being a great manager is a journey, not a destination. By embracing both traditional and unconventional leadership qualities, managers can create high-performing, motivated teams that thrive in today’s dynamic work environment. Whether you’re new to management or looking to refine your approach, the insights in this article offer a strong foundation for success.

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