by Todd Pheifer

Created on: January 07, 2009   Last Updated: January 30, 2009

In theory, most managers aspire to be "successful" within their organizations, but defining that quantity can be problematic at best. The idea of managerial success can be financial, organizational, relational, or some combination of these or other aspects. Also, a manager may see him or herself as successful but be unaware that others do not share that view. Therefore, here are a few thoughts on what qualities make up a successful manager.

Listening skills

The successful manager is the person who is a good listener. Of course, listening is more than hearing. It is the ability to understand what the person is saying and provide appropriate feedback. Granted, just because a manager is a good listener doesn't mean they have to do everything that is requested of them. The successful manager is the person who can convey to people that they hear what they are saying, but can still make the right decision for the department. But, the successful manager understands that people want to at least feel like they are being heard.

Authenticity

Another trait of a successful manager is authenticity. This means that the manager is "real", which can be difficult for some people in a leadership position. Sometimes people feel like they need to be the "boss", which causes them to take on a different personality. This is particularly noticeable when people are promoted from within and they adopt a new attitude as a manager. Overall, people don't always have to "like" their manager, but they should respect them and know what to expect.

Production

Of course, successful managers have to produce. This means that they have to perform the duties of the job as required by the organization. In addition, the "successful" manager is often the person who develops their department and takes it to the "next level." Success is also measured when the manager gets their whole team moving towards that goal of production.

Humor

In today's modern organizational environment, successful managers often have a sense of humor. This goes beyond the ability to crack jokes and tell funny stories. It is also about creating a general environment where people have fun and are relaxed enough to enjoy their work. Granted, work can't always be fun and games but people are often more productive when they like coming to work.

Vision

Finally, the successful manager is the person who can cast a vision for the future in their department. More importantly, they have to be able to articulate that vision in a tangible manner and inspire their employees to embrace that vision. Some managers can paint a "big picture" but they can't translate it to the day-to-day operations. Or, they can't convey to employees why they should care about that particular vision.

The whole package

Overall, the successful manager is the person who can relate to their employees, create a team, and move them effectively towards a goal of production and development. The challenge of management is that some aspects can be taught, while others seem to be innate. The successful organization is the place that can effectively evaluate those people who have the ability to be successful managers and ultimately grow the organization.

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