Contrary to most people’s understanding, managers and leaders are two entirely different things.  Managers, as the name implies, manage resources, while leaders do basically what is expected of them, which is to lead.

As such, not all leaders assume the role as managers but all managers are readily responsible as leaders at the same time.

Having the capacity and the ability to manage resources is a very crucial factor in developing efficiency and productivity in the workplace.  When we say resources, we refer to the people, the time, the finances, and all other intangibles that we handle and deal with in our everyday affairs at work.

How to be a good manager?
Know the ins and outs of the territory
Know what your employees are doing and what tasks have to be addressed in order to fulfill your organizational objectives.  Give clear directions and guide them throughout the process.  Let them work at their own pace but be sure that they recognize the value of being able to deliver what needs to be done.

Treat things as simple as possible.
A good manager has an innate ability to perceive what needs to be attended to and done ahead of time.  He/She knows exactly what the situation calls for and acts toward the better option among his/her choices.  In short, a good manager does not make complexities out of the ordinary, but rather looks at the problem as it is and finds a way to overcome it.

Maintain an open line of communication
Communication is a vital element for a harmonious relationship between a manager and his/her employees.  Encourage honest feedback and criticisms among your people and help them develop a positive attitude towards their work.  Let them know how they are doing and point out areas that need to be addressed in order to improve and maximize their output.  Speak clearly and direct to the point.

However, bear in mind that your employees will take your words differently so learn to adjust and take their points of view.  Be a good listener.

Establish a good working relationship with your employees.
Have the initiative to talk to and know your people.  Find out what interests them, what occupies them during their free time, and ask them all about their family.  This may help establish an atmosphere conducive for work, thus helping you achieve your goal for an open venue of communication.

However, this does not necessarily mean that you have to be “buddies” with everybody because that may endanger your professional relationship with them as a manager.

Lead by example.
Be a role model; show your dedication, trustworthiness, and integrity.  Assume your role as a leader and a manager and hold your people accountable for their work and their personal performance (e.g. attendance, deadlines, output, etc).  This will give them a sense of liability and professionalism.

Remember to hold everyone accountable to prevent them from accusing you as having favorites and pets among them.

Motivate and push your people to success.
A good manager must also be a good motivator.  Give rewards and recognitions to those who deserve it to make them feel good and drive them to do better the next time around.  This will help them gain the confidence and the esteem to continue with the job and provide you with the best available results.

Plan, plan, and plan some more
A good manager must know what lies ahead of him/her.  He/She must be able to assess the risks involved in his/her every action and minimize the rate of its impact on the organization’s goals.  As a manager, he/she must have a clear direction of where he/she wants the company to be in the future.

Be able to realize the importance of planning in order to get your desired long-term results.