Listening to Direct Reports
When we look at historical images of managers, they are clearly authoritative.
The image of a person in power, elevated above a crowd of people comes to mind.
This person typically has all the answers and their followers speak only after the leader speaks.
Obviously, this is a very primitive managerial style.
But surprisingly, some of the elements of this style still exist today.
Sometimes when managers get down to crunch time, they rely on their own skill set and capabilities and ignore critical skills offered by direct reports.
This is a sure road to disaster.
Even if the task gets done on time, sometimes there is no remedy for an employee who feels undervalued.
Managers should constantly inventory the skill sets of their direct reports.
Typically there is a collection of skills and experience that allows managers to concentrate on thinking strategically.
The secretary or Accounting tech in the department may be the most knowledgeable in certain areas.
It is important that their knowledge be embraced.
Many times, these specific employees have vested relationships throughout the organization and are key players in assisting managers in getting things done.
The best way to stay in touch with these employees is to inquire about special instances in their lives.
Secretaries are notorious for having their cubicles decorated in a way that indicates what is going on in their lives.
With these particular employees, it is important to remember birthdays and special occasions.
Recognize them on Secretary's day or send a special note when their anniversary rolls around.
Many times these particular employees are the fabric of the department.
They organize special events and keep important details together.
The last thing that any manager should do is slight them or ignore their capabilities.
Managers should also embrace their willingness to learn and facilitate a career development path.
Suggesting company training classes that may enhance their direction is a great idea.
Providing opportunities for upper management to recognize these employees is also wise.
Managers have to realize that they can learn a tremendous amount from direct reports.
In fact, these employees can be most resourceful during crunch time.
The image of a person in power, elevated above a crowd of people comes to mind.
This person typically has all the answers and their followers speak only after the leader speaks.
Obviously, this is a very primitive managerial style.
But surprisingly, some of the elements of this style still exist today.
Sometimes when managers get down to crunch time, they rely on their own skill set and capabilities and ignore critical skills offered by direct reports.
This is a sure road to disaster.
Even if the task gets done on time, sometimes there is no remedy for an employee who feels undervalued.
Managers should constantly inventory the skill sets of their direct reports.
Typically there is a collection of skills and experience that allows managers to concentrate on thinking strategically.
The secretary or Accounting tech in the department may be the most knowledgeable in certain areas.
It is important that their knowledge be embraced.
Many times, these specific employees have vested relationships throughout the organization and are key players in assisting managers in getting things done.
The best way to stay in touch with these employees is to inquire about special instances in their lives.
Secretaries are notorious for having their cubicles decorated in a way that indicates what is going on in their lives.
With these particular employees, it is important to remember birthdays and special occasions.
Recognize them on Secretary's day or send a special note when their anniversary rolls around.
Many times these particular employees are the fabric of the department.
They organize special events and keep important details together.
The last thing that any manager should do is slight them or ignore their capabilities.
Managers should also embrace their willingness to learn and facilitate a career development path.
Suggesting company training classes that may enhance their direction is a great idea.
Providing opportunities for upper management to recognize these employees is also wise.
Managers have to realize that they can learn a tremendous amount from direct reports.
In fact, these employees can be most resourceful during crunch time.
