Qualities of a Manager: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

I am the Chair of the 2009-2010 NMRT Online Discussion Forum and I will be moderating this month’s Online Discussion. Our topic: Qualities of a Manager: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

There's enough research out there which suggests that many managers/supervisors are not necessarily "trained" management professionals, but are, in many cases, managers/supervisors by longevity and/or senority. This doesn't necessarily mean that all untrained managers are unqualified. Many new leaders advance as a result of demonstrated qualities and abilities, but these traits may not always translate into effectively managing people or working well with others, crucial points when it comes to upper-level management. Then what's the reality when it comes to managerial/supervisory preparedness in the workforce? Are new leaders or employees who have advanced from being individual contributors to supervising or managing others receiving the coaching they need to reach their full development potential?

The trials and tribulations that accompany working for a "bad" boss are manifold, as too are the joys, pleasures and inspiring environment of working for a "good" boss.

The best managers I had displayed these qualities:

Responsive to my needs. Cared about the work I did and how I did it. Would take the time to explain how I should perform my work, but would also give me space to perform. Appreciated me taking the initiative to perform my work better. Asked if I ever needed assistance with anything all the time. If there was an issue with any work I performed, my manager would explain what I could improve upon. Challenged me to perform more work when it was necessary. Developed my leadership skills and allowed me to train others in the work I performed. Always respectful and knowledgeable about what direction we needed to take in order to get our work done.

The worst managers I had displayed these qualities:

Did not apply the same “rules” to all employees, when they should have. Disrespectful. Did not appreciate when employees would perform more work if it meant more work for them, no matter who it benefited. Very difficult to communicate with. Bad at time management. Contradicted themselves when it came to explaining procedures. Extremely unorganized. Poor response time to questions asked. Rude at times and had a negative outlook at work. Would not challenge employees; and became invisible as a leader when times got tough and they were needed to support/defend/advocate for their staff, resources and/or services.

So, to get this month's NMRT's Online Discussion Forum's Topic on Qualities of a Manager: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly started here's a few questions to consider:

What qualities define good managers?
What qualities define poor managers?
What characteristics of style, personality, and motivation do bad leaders and good leaders have in common?
What is "Bad" Leadership: How Does It Happen and Why Does It Matter?
Dealing With a Bad Boss: Strategies for Coping?
How can libraries make sure there is less bad leadership and more good leadership?

So pop on over to our listserv at nmrt-l@ala.org and share your views!

Happy Discussing,
Veronica