Becoming A Role Model Manager

7 skills that can help you lead, inspire

A role model manager is one who inspires those who work for him or her, as well as exhibits managerial excellence in many aspects of the business. While having all the traits befitting of a leadership role models are not very common, the seven skills that can help you lead, inspire and garner respect can easily be learned and improved upon.
 

1. Present a Positive Attitude

No one is saying that you aren’t allowed to have a bad day now and then, but if you can exhibit strength, calm and perseverance even during stressful times and a good, positive attitude overall, you will instil the same within your employees. A positive team will be better able to troubleshoot problems and overcome adversity in the workplace.
 

2. Earn and Build Trust

A role model manager must be trustworthy. Your team won’t feel inclined to show you much respect if you aren’t true to your word and honest with your employees. As The Guardian points out, the characteristics, traits and behaviors of an ideal role model are often personal and may change over time.
 

3. Exhibit Integrity

A good manager will make decisions for the betterment of the business as a whole and not just for him or herself. Employees will respect a manager that genuinely cares about the business and also those who work within the organization. Give credit where credit is due and take responsibility for your actions.
 

4. Lead and Inspire

Take care to always lead by example in a responsible manner, and your employees will follow suit. A good leader motivates his team rather than criticizes them and strives to inspire team members to reach their full potential. Keep in mind that leadership role models don’t come to lead overnight. Audit your skills and habits. What do you need to develop?

Harvard Business Review suggests acting as an “organizational anthropologist.” Look for a person skilled in the area you need developed and learn from them.
 

5. Make Time for Employees

Communication is always important for any organization to run smoothly. Make sure you always have time for employee concerns or questions and offer your advice and wisdom if applicable.
 

6. Learn About Your Employees

Your employees are your biggest assets and they have lives outside of the workplace. They have families, interests and occasionally problems that might interfere with their performance. Take time during lunch or after work to get to know them better and plan company activities and outings. Doing so shows that you respect your employees as individuals both in and out of the workplace.
 

7. Offer Support and Encouragement

Just as you might have a bad day, so too might some of your employees. Offer support and encouragement by creating a healthy workplace environment and taking the time to understand any problems or difficulties your employees may be having.
 
All of the above traits combined are what makes a role model manager that employees can look up to. Working for such a manager leads employees to strive to do better themselves and better affects the company as a whole.
 
This article originally appeared here

Author Bio

Katie Flanagan is a Marketing and Events Specialist with Mimeo. Connect Katie Flanagan Follow @K_Flanagan Video How to Earn Your Seat at the Table as a Training Professional