Traits of Great Managers: The Secrets to Exceptional Leadership

Being a great manager is more than just overseeing tasks or meeting deadlines—it’s about inspiring, guiding, and cultivating a team that thrives both individually and collectively. But what makes a manager truly exceptional? Here are some key traits that set great managers apart:
1.   Empathy – Great managers understand the power of connection.
2.   Clear Communication – It is the lifeline of any team.
3.   Adaptability – The best leaders are flexible and can navigate change seamlessly.
4.   Empowerment – A great manager knows that empowering employees is key to unlocking potential.
5.   Integrity – Integrity is non-negotiable for great managers – honesty, transparency and consistency.
6.   Problem-Solving Skills – When obstacles arise, great managers tackle them head-on. collaboratively.
7.   Recognition and Appreciation – Acknowledging and celebrating accomplishments—big and small—is a hallmark of exceptional leadership.
8.   Commitment to Growth – Great managers invest in their team’s development to attain full potential.
9.   Visionary Thinking – Exceptional managers are forward-thinkers who inspire their team with a shared vision.
10.  Emotional Intelligence – Managers with emotional intelligence excel in understanding their team’s emotions and maintaining harmony.

In summary, great managers are not born—they are developed through dedication, self-awareness, and a genuine commitment to their team. By embodying these traits, any manager can transform into a catalyst for success, inspiring their team to achieve greatness.

Contributed by Marc L. Goldberg, SCORE Cape Cod & the Islands, www.score.org/capecod, 508/775-4884.  Free and confidential mentoring and online webinars for small businesses.