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How do I become a better manager?
The question: What tools do I need, interpersonal and otherwise, to be a better manager? I read what seems like lots of conflicting information about what it takes for leaders to lead.Dr. Spann responds...
Adapt style to fit company's unique needs
Conflicting information on what interpersonal and other tools managers need to lead reflects the fact that organizations are different and change over time. Skills that help a manager succeed today could make that manager fail in a different company or in the same company 10 years later.
Determining what's necessary to become a better manager will require a yearly company and self-evaluation. Take the time to think through what your company's strengths and problem areas are, where your industry is going and what future needs might be. Get information from peers, employees, your banker and suppliers. Determine what managerial skills and tools are needed to lead the company to success in the future.
Evaluate your own managerial strengths ruthlessly against the managerial skills and tools needed for the company's success. Get good information from trusted confidants. If you don't have the needed skills, begin a developmental plan to get them. This plan could include reading, workshops, plunging into new assignments, joint projects with experts and coaching from consultants.