Good manager vs. bad manager

When it comes to setting up and running a business, effective management and leadership is a key component for a company to succeed. Some people are privileged to work with the best bosses, but time and time again, many employees come across bad managers, too.

If you want to ensure that you are running your business effectively, then you need to make sure that you are managing your employees well. But what is a good manager, and how does this compare to a bad manager? While all managers have the same kinds of responsibilities in the workplace, there are definitive differences between a good boss and a bad boss.

A bad manager commands; a good manager asks

With all businesses, there are tasks that employees are required to complete in order to accommodate the needs of the company. While that is understandable, it is important to note that piling on an extremely heavy amount of workload isn’t the most effective way of getting your workers to complete tasks.

Assign tasks that are easily manageable, coach your colleagues and make sure that you communicate the aims and goals effectively in order to allow your workers to be productive and get the job done.

A bad manager says ‘I’; a good manager says ‘we’

Bad managers tend to be selfish and they’re less likely to be attentive to the needs of their employees. Clearly, this is a recipe for disaster in the world of business ownership because it’s important to care about your workers and show respect. Good managers recognise the importance of working together as a team and they understand that all contributions from workers are essential.

A bad manager plays the blame game; a good manager takes responsibility for their actions

Sometimes, things will go wrong. Unfortunately, that’s what happens in business – things don’t always work out, but handling the situation well is key. A bad manager will blame their workers for failures. A good manager will take full responsibility, come up with solutions, learn from their mistakes and move on.

A bad manager takes credit; a good manager gives credit

As the saying goes, ‘credit’s where credit’s due’. It’s imperative for bosses to give praise to their employees when it’s deserved. Praise is rewarding and it boosts confidence and morale.

Goodwille can support with training and coaching as part of our HR service offering. Contact us for more information on how we can support your organisation, managers and employees to succeed in the UK.