Why is it still so hard to find good managers? This question was recently asked by Victor Lipman, a popular author of management articles on Forbes.com. He explains that the cause is the challenging combination of skills from different disciplines which is required to perform a manager's role. What other professions should, therefore, a good manager master?
Psychologist
A manager should understand his subordinates, know what motivates them and what is demotivating. A sense of psychology should lead him to managing people so that they want to show the best possible performance.
Accountant
A manager is mostly responsible for keeping a certain budget. He must have at least a basic understanding of finance and the ability to perceive his work in numbers.
Coach
A manager should be aware of the fact that the work of his subordinates is challenging. He should help them by inspiring and support them in their efforts. The coaching approach to people management is now a common part of management.
Law enforcer
The coaching itself may not be enough when your project starts to develop in a wrong direction. A manager should therefore build his position of authority and be able to lead employees to get the expected results using the authority.
Diplomat
A manager must be able to get along with both his subordinates and superiors. He understands that both these groups of people have different needs and interests and try to balance it.
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