My favorite part of every interview is when the candidate asks me questions, but one that I never quite know how to answer is "what is your management style?". So I flipped the script. I started asking candidates "what management style does your "dream manager" have?", and the answers have been more than insightful. *Nobody wants to be micromanaged* This should be obvious, but the more I ask about it the more I learn. People don't dislike being micromanaged because they are lazy or afraid to be put under a microscope, micromanagement makes people feel as though they don't have the skills to do the job on their own. "The dream manager" provides clear expectations, tools to get the job done, and consistent check ins on progress. *People seek feedback, but the delivery should vary* Every person I have asked this question to mentions wanting consistent feedback and coaching, but describes the ideal delivery in different ways. There are candidates who thrive with direct notes from managers, some who want to learn directly through their peers, and others who love the sandwich of positivity. "The dream manager" learns these preferences quickly and adjusts coaching accordingly. *Leaders are their people's best advocate in professional development* There is not an interview I get through without talking about the opportunity to grow and develop, and most candidates mention this as one of the ways "the dream manager" inspires them to do their best work. "The dream manager" is a trailblazer in the path to well earned promotion. So what is my management style? I think I'm still trying to figure that out. 🤣 What types of managers have helped you all thrive? And to my fellow people managers, what is your style?
Jenna Lichtig
1mo
I am a strong balance of autonomy and accountability. Another area I describe my style is that I am equally invested in your success from 9am-5pm, as I am your 5pm - 9am. This in turn provides a space of trust and perspective where people know that I am invested in their development.
Anne Marie D.
1mo
For me, the direct managers who have helped me most (Jess B. Mauro, Brian Keehner, Jared Iverson, and Ericka Pratt) listened to me, adjusted their style to accommodate my need to verbally process, and also challenged me with thoughtful questions to promote deeper dialogue about building my skills, solving problems, or working with customers.
Erin Wilke
1mo
Kayla Lynch you may still be figuring it out, but you are a wonderful manager and more importantly, leader. So lucky to have learned from you! Jenna Lichtig - you too!
Patrick Lynch
1mo
Well put!
Sales | Dad | 90's Nostalgia
1moThe best managers seek to understand from their employees on how to best motivate them, coach them, how they digest information, etc. and adapt accordingly. They know it’s never a one size fits all and truly feel like they work for their employees. They are humble, empower others and loyal. All things I’ve seen you exhibit in a short amount of time.