This is a question that continues to plague me, and I believe others feel the same way; How does one go about being a "good manager"?
Leadership seems to be an overall umbrella that covers the "good manager", but I am looking for a more in-depth answer. What is leadership? How does this make a manager good at his/her job? Lets parse this out a bit.
Leadership is a broad term, it is one that embodies multiple facets of a person's personality. A true leader is one who can inspire, promote, enhance and protect those around him/her. Inspire by making him/herself an example to follow (shirt tucked in, cleans up around the office, etc. etc.). Promote your team, that is make sure you give constructive criticism, but be liberal with the gratitude as well. Enhance each member of your team by offering opportunities to grow and have more responsibility. Finally, protect your team members from themselves and each other. Remember, there is no "I" in "Team", protect those around you by listening, engaging and, most importantly, encourage your team members to be innovative (don't destroy dreams, build on them). The best kind of manager/leader, is one who sets boundaries and gives directions, but allows for others to build the route.
It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.
Nelson Mandela
