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We've all had managers that left a lot to be desired and many of us have had managers that are truly inspiring and outstanding. What separates the two? In my opinion, there are attributes that can make a good manager great.

Employees are not children and don't wish to be treated as a child would. Let the employee take full accountability for their work. Make sure your employee has all the tools to do the job and knows what and when it needs to be complete, then give them some freedom to do the job and do it well. When a staff member feels trusted, he will more likely produce a higher quality product because his time and his efforts matter!

As a manager, know when to assist and when to stand back. This means getting routine updates on the job, any issues related to getting the job done and goals met so far. If the employee just needs to figure out how to manage his own time, stand back and wait for him to ask for help. However, if the issues are too big, step in and give some advice or raise concern. Make sure that a good employee knows that when you do step in, it's for the purpose of "clearing the path" so that the employee can finish the job, not because you've lost faith.

Focus on the team! Although every individual matters, the team as a whole is viewed as one entity by most others in the organization. Make sure that employees with a great idea understand that even good ideas may not be implemented right now because the team is moving in another direction.

Encourage the individual to grow and succeed. I've heard it said before that the best managers surround themselves with great employees. After all - great employees can only make you, as the manager, look better. Encourage personal and professional growth in the form of classes, specialized skills training, taking time to learn more about the company and others.

However, I think the best management skill is to know when and how to fire someone. Not everyone will fit into your position. You need someone with the right skills, personality traits and thought patterns that the company views as valuable. There is no shame in letting the employee go, especially if the employee is not a good fit. Never make the firing personal, but instead keep it focused on the business attributes the soon-to-be ex employee did not fit and suggestions for future growth.

Top managers work hard at doing a good job. They make sure that their team has no obstacles in their path and are all working toward the same end.

Learn more about this author, Linda J Banks.
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