8 Essential Skills, for Team Management
1. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence (EI);
Recognising and understanding the emotions of your team members can significantly strengthen your connections with them. Remember that time when a manager noticed Johns downcast mood, engaged in a conversation and realised he was stressed? Granting him a day not boosted his loyalty but also made him genuinely grateful.
2. Communication.
It’s crucial to be clear and concise when giving instructions. Effective communication isn’t about speaking; it also involves listening. Recall how Manager Amy organised forums that led to a groundbreaking idea for the company.
3. Adaptability;
Business environments are ever changing as are the moods of your team members. Similar to Manager Bob, who swiftly adjusted the team’s strategy during a project when he realised it wasn’t working. Being flexible is key.
4. Problem Solving.
Having the ability to identify issues and find solutions is vital for management. Take inspiration from Manager Carla, who once faced a team conflict and chose not to take sides but instead mediated a discussion finding ground, for everyone involved.
5. Decision Making.
Striking the balance between being decisive and considering the opinions of your team members is essential.
Remember the story of Manager Dave who conducted a vote but ultimately made the decision, on the projects direction?
6. Motivational Skills.
Ignite the passion within your team. Manager Elise pleasantly surprised her team with a lunch to show appreciation resulting in a month of productivity and morale.
7. Delegation.
Trusting your team with tasks is crucial. Manager Frank acknowledged that he couldn’t handle everything alone, so he assigned tasks based on strengths ensuring the success of the project.
8. Recognition:
Providing feedback can have effects. Manager Grace once sat down with each member individually offering tailored feedback and appreciation. As a result the teams work quality soared.
In Conclusion
To truly excel as a manager, it’s not about giving orders. Delve into understanding your team demonstrate respect towards them keep a mind and guide them towards success. Your leadership journey has just begun and equipped with these skills you are on your way to becoming a legend, in the world. Embrace it. Witness your team shine!
Ways to Manage Teams and Staff Members
Effectively managing teams and staff members is essential, for the success of any organisation. Whether you’re a manager or an experienced leader including these practices into your management style can prove beneficial.
1. Clear Communication
It is important to define roles, responsibilities and expectations.
- Keep communication channels open and make yourself available for questions and concerns.
- Check on progress and provide feedback.
2. Establishing Clear Goals
Create SMART (measurable, achievable, relevant, time bound) objectives that everyone understands.
3. Leading by Example
- Demonstrate the work ethic, attitude and professionalism you expect from your team.
- Practice what you preach.
4. Empowering Your Team
- Delegate tasks while trusting in your teams’ abilities to complete them successfully.
- Provide growth opportunities and training.
- Encourage ownership.
5. Regular Feedback Provision
- Offer both reinforcement and constructive criticism.
- Conduct periodic performance reviews.
6. Recognising and Rewarding Efforts
Celebrate team accomplishments, as individual achievements.
Here are some actionable steps to enhance your team’s performance.
7. Promote a work environment.
- Foster collaboration and teamwork.
- Cultivate a culture of respect, inclusivity and diversity.
8. Handle conflicts proactively.
- Address issues promptly and directly.
- Encourage dialogue and listen to all parties involved.
- Seek solutions that benefit the team.
9. Provide the resources.
- Ensure your team has access, to the tools, training and resources they need for success.
- Address any gaps or deficiencies promptly.
10. Stay updated.
- Keep up with industry trends, best practices and emerging technologies.
- Encourage continuous learning for both you and your team.
11. Invest in team building.
- Organize activities that promote camaraderie and trust among team members.
- Recognize and appreciate differences, strengths and preferences.
12. Support work life balance.
- Understand the importance of time of work.
- Be flexible, with scheduling whenever possible.
13. Meetings
- Have team meetings to discuss progress, challenges and strategies.
- Ensure that these meetings are productive, by setting an agenda and time limits.
14. Open Communication Policy
- Make it known to your team that they can approach you with any concerns or ideas.
- Foster an environment where feedback from team members is encouraged and acted upon.
15. Measure and Evaluate
- Keep track of the team’s performance using established metrics and KPIs.
- Use data driven insights to make decisions and develop strategies.
16. Adaptability
- Recognise when changes are necessary whether it’s in processes, strategies or team dynamics.
- Stay flexible and open minded towards approaches.
Remember every team and organisation is unique. What may work well for one might not be as effective for another. Continuously assess your management techniques. Be willing to adapt and grow. Listening to your teams feedback while being responsive, to their needs is one of the ways to ensure long term success.
David Alssema is a Body Language Expert and Motivational Speaker. As a performer in the personal development industry in Australia he has introduced and created new ways to inspire, motivate and develop individuals.
David Alssema started his training career with companies such as Telstra and Optus Communications, and then developed Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) within workplace training as principal of Paramount Training & Development.
As an author/media consultant on body language and professional development David has influenced workplaces across Australia. He contributes to Media such as The West Australian, ABC Radio, Australian Magazines and other Australia Media Sources.