managerial-skillsExcellent managerial skills help create an environment of happy employees. Aside from the programs that you do through your charitable work, the heart of your organization is your staff. You can learn leadership and management in time. As an example, it’s something that I’ve developed over decades of work. And, as a result, in my social enterprise, I always make it a point to ensure that our team has everything they need, including a good time at the office. That formula helps make us successful.

For instance, when we welcome someone on board, we’re always sure to set the tone. Having excellent managerial skills means we prepare in advance of a new team member coming on board. And, for those who work with us, we have team building meetings, music throughout the office, and even games and lunches. Sure, it’s not easy to be a manager, but it’s not meant to be easy. Instead, what’s important is that you not only focus on the vital work you do. But, also on ensuring that your team understands they’re appreciated. In turn, they’ll make you more successful because they’re happy employees.

With that said, the following are five easy ways that we make sure we have happy employees.

Managerial Skills Include Working with Adults

Have you gone through an office and felt that you were back in high school? Sometimes, you have managers who believe that their employees can’t be trusted. And so, these people can be obsessive micro-managers, passive aggressive or down-right abusive. What makes a good manager and leader is someone respectful of the fact that they have adults working for them. Leaders with good managerial skills treat their teams with respect––no ifs, ands, or buts about it. And, they don’t always second-guess what’s happening. When employees feel that they are respected and trusted, most often, they rise to the occasion and do great work.

Managing with the 90/10 Rule of Listening

The best managers and leaders develop one managerial skill exceptionally well. And, that is the art of listening. So many times, people feel the need to talk and exert authority. That’s a mistake. As a result, when you do this as a manager, you’re missing valuable information your employees may be telling you about what works or is not working. So, follow the 90/10 Rule of Listening. Ensure that in your nonprofit, there’s always ample opportunity for discussion, and yes, even debate. Also, make sure that your employees know that they can speak up in public and private. In other words, create a place of respect and trust that helps your happy employees to provide you with valuable insight.

Transparency is Essential Not Only for Employees But Also Managers

Managers expect their team members to provide them with critical information. But, this is a two-way street. To have happy employees who have bought into the vision of the organization, managers have to be transparent. In other words, nonprofit leaders have to become excellent communicators. Happy employees are all in on a cause and mission. But, you’re the one that has to provide it. And, even if you’re not the CEO of a nonprofit and only lead a department, you can still offer transparency throughout. Managerial skills include learning to communicate the vision. And, tell your team clearly about you’re thinking. Finally, ask them for input because they may help inform your decisions. Transparent management is essential for success, and remember, it goes both ways.

Always be a Consistent Leader for Good Managerial Skills

Another essential aspect of happy employees is consistency. I’ve heard stories about nonprofit managers who treat their staff in one way and when threatened, another. It’s a wrong move because it forces people to walk on eggshells. A good manager understands that consistency in temperament and work is vital for success. As a result of consistency, people know what to expect. They’re not walking on shifting sand every time they enter into the office. And, in turn, a consistent manager allows people to focus on the job instead of worrying about the mood of their boss.

Employee Perks Only Work if There is Value

Many managers think that a way to get people in line is to provide perks. And, while employees like days off or pizza lunches, if the manager is not a good leader, it’s not going to work. So, forget giving out perks––unless you provide your employees with value. What does that mean? It means that you encourage your employees. You’ve provided them with a transparent and stimulating environment. And, you’ve shown them that they can express their opinions. In other words, you’re providing them with vision, energy, a motivating environment, consistency, and transparency. All of this helps managers develop excellent managerial skills and creates happy employees.

Author of “Not Your Father’s Charity: Grip & Rip Leadership for Social Impact”(Free Digital Download)

© 2019 Wayne Elsey and Not Your Father’s Charity. All Rights Reserved