As a manager, it’s crucial to have a variety of skills in order to effectively lead and motivate your team. While the specific skills required may vary depending on the industry, there are some key skills that every manager should possess. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at five skills every manager should have and provide academic references to support our key findings.
- Communication Skills
Communication is an essential skill for any manager, as it enables them to effectively communicate with their team, clients, and stakeholders. Managers should be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, and should be able to actively listen to their team members. Effective communication skills can help to build trust, resolve conflicts, and create a positive work environment.
According to a study by Harvard Business Review, effective communication is one of the most important skills for a manager to possess. The study found that managers who communicate effectively are more likely to be successful in their roles and have higher job satisfaction levels (Laloux, 2014).
- Leadership Skills
Leadership is another essential skill for managers, as it enables them to inspire and motivate their team to achieve their goals. A good leader should be able to set a clear direction for their team, provide guidance and support, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
A study by the Center for Creative Leadership found that effective leadership is one of the most important factors in creating a high-performing team. The study found that leaders who are able to inspire and motivate their team are more likely to achieve success and create a positive work environment (Center for Creative Leadership, 2017).
- Problem-Solving Skills
Managers should also possess strong problem-solving skills, as they are often called upon to identify and resolve issues that arise within their team or organization. A good manager should be able to analyze complex problems, identify potential solutions, and make sound decisions based on available data.
A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that problem-solving skills are one of the top competencies required for a successful manager. The study found that managers who are able to effectively solve problems are more likely to be successful in their roles and create a positive work environment (Society for Human Resource Management, 2018).
- Time Management Skills
Time management is a critical skill for managers, as they are often responsible for juggling multiple tasks and priorities. A good manager should be able to prioritize tasks, manage their time effectively, and delegate tasks as needed to ensure that deadlines are met.
A study by the Journal of Business and Psychology found that time management skills are essential for managers to be successful. The study found that managers who are able to effectively manage their time are more likely to achieve their goals and create a positive work environment (Eby et al., 2003).
- Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Managers with high emotional intelligence are able to build strong relationships with their team members, resolve conflicts effectively, and create a positive work environment.
A study by the Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies found that emotional intelligence is one of the key factors in effective leadership. The study found that managers with high emotional intelligence are more likely to be successful in their roles and create a positive work environment (Harms & Crede, 2010).
In conclusion, every manager should possess a variety of skills in order to effectively lead and motivate their team. Communication, leadership, problem-solving, time management, and emotional intelligence are all essential skills for a successful manager to possess. By developing these skills, managers can create a positive work environment, achieve their goals, and help their team to succeed.
References: Center for Creative Leadership. (2017). The role
