There have been numerous studies published on what constitutes ‘good management’. But for 10 years, Google conducted in depth research - delving into the thousands of studies on this subject and determining the most commonly cited traits that constitute good management.
Read on to discover what Google discovered about management in the modern era:
1. Good coaching skills
A manager who has good coaching skills is highly valued by their teams, according to Google. They use guidance and empowerment techniques to encourage teams to work independently, utilising praise and reward as well as constructive criticism.
2. Forget micromanaging
Micromanaging is the process of scrutinising everything an employee does and making them feel you are managing every aspect of their job. And guess what - according to Google, everybody hates a micromanager. People like freedom - especially millennials who now make up the majority of the workforce. Good managers equip their teams with the tools, resources and knowledge they need to work to their best potential. They allow workers to be independently and give them workplace flexibility. This could include the ability to work from home.
3. Creates inclusive environments concerned with wellbeing
Inclusive environments promote personal psychological safety, which enhances work performance. Google said, “In a team with high psychological safety, teammates feel safe to take risks around their team members. They feel confident that no one on the team will embarrass or punish anyone else for admitting a mistake, asking a question, or offering a new idea”. A good manager will also be inclusive of minorities and all genders and sexualities. There will be no discrimination and a concious effort to include those who would normally be excluded.
4. Results orientated
Managers who are most respected by their team members use emotionally intelligent techniques to motivate staff to achieve their goals. Results are rewarded and encouraged. There may even be a rewards system for those who meet their goals, such as a celebration or a team night out.
5. Listens
Great managers know how to listen and communicate. They can show empathy and summarise conversations accurately. They also communicate transparently and specifically. They also don’t hold back from giving feedback, even if it is negative. If the employee feels safe and supported, they will respond to negative feedback with positivity and a renewed motivation to do well.
6. Encourages career development
The best managers are invested in people - not just numbers. They want employees to thrive and do well in their career. They will encourage employees to partake in training courses and other development opportunities so that employees can see a future with the company they’re with. Good managers know that knowledge is power, and that equipping teams with knowledge will benefit everybody.
7. Has a clear strategy
Great managers have a strategy that they are happy to share with the whole team. They know where the team is going and what everyone’s role should be. Their expectations are realistic and clear. Each person in the team knows what role they have within the overall strategy, and also know that they are valued within the strategy.
8. Cares about employee health
A good manager knows that their employees are human beings and need emotional support to remain healthy and happy. They also know that health is important, and that investing in employee health can create stronger teams and less sickness.
One way a manager might invest in employee health is by ensuring they are comfortable and safe in the workplace. Supplying ergonomic furniture is one way to doing this. Ergonomic furniture is designed with employee wellness in mind. Ergonomic office chairs, desks, exercise desks and accessories can help employees optimise health and reduce workplace injury risk.
9. Collaborates
A good manager sees their colleagues as collaborators rather than competitors. They like to learn from others and lean on those who have more knowledge and experience. They are also happy to collaborate with their teams and hear everyone’s point of view.
10. Is a strong decision maker
Finally, it’s important that a manager is able to make clear, direct decisions that benefit the team and company as a whole. They should use confident, clear language and their team should trust that they can lead assertively.
Flexispot can help you become a better manager
Flexispot cares about employee health and wellness in the same way any great manager does. Flexispot supplies state of the art equipment and furniture to aid any employee in their work. You can browse our full range of furniture by clicking here. If you want to speak to someone at Flexispot about providing ergonomic furniture for your teams, either in the workplace or at home, you can contact one of our friendly staff today.
