by Ted Saul
I have had opportunity to work for some outstanding managers throughout the years but two that stand out have been women. And since this issue is about women in business, I felt it appropriate to share some of their management styles that made them thrive in the corporate world. The traits they have modeled have had such a strong influence that they have helped me be more successful in my work experiences. Here is some of what has been learned. And remember that these qualities will benefit any manager at any level or type of business.
- Both of these managers paid attention to detail and were examples of how to do good work. This included how they handled issues with employees and customers. The lesson learned is that respect will be given if you give your best.
- They took time to understand their employees. My current manager, whom I’ve been with fifteen years, came into a group of highly skilled technical people, most were older than her. This could have proved very intimidating but she took time to learn how to manage and related to us.
- Not only did both of these managers learn about us, but they would learn from their employees. They were willing to listen and worked hard to open the lines of communication. This can be especially difficult with men who tend to keep to themselves.
- When I think of these of two women and their management styles, I can’t help but remember how they brought the best out in their employees – including me. I was made to feel successful which in-turn helped me strive to accomplish beyond what I thought I could. My job became a career.
- They have stood behind and trusted their employees. I remember a time as a new employee when a customer became rather offensive during a support call. My manager immediately took over the call explaining that I did not have to put up with that type of abuse. She then proceeded to explain the same to the customer. I really felt valued as an employee.
- Both of these managers went out of their way to reward their employees. They have done this fairly and consistently while working under some difficult company constraints. My teams always knew our managers were doing all they could.
- Finally, these two managers showed interest in their employees. You can’t know your employees unless you are familiar with their families and outside interests. These two managers would always take time to listen to what is going after work hours and showed genuine interest.
Much of this is Management 101 but for some reason these ways seem to be second nature to these women. I’ve always believed that we should learn from others and have been fortunate to have worked for these two excellent examples in the corporate world.
Ted Saul provides private business consulting that assists startup and small businesses with organizational and planning needs. Ted holds an MBA from Regis University out of Denver Colorado. Ted can be reached at t.saul@juno.com, teds787 on Twitter and on Linkedin.