When you’re a manager, it might seem like you’ve already mastered the art of etiquette and you don’t need any advice in this area. But as you’ll see, there may be a few basic things that you’ve overlooked. These days, we work at our desks and often meet people online rather than in person, but that doesn’t mean the rules have changed. In this blog post, we’re looking at 6 simple etiquette tips that can set you apart as an ideal manager.
Be Polite, Be On Time
Be polite to your employees. This may seem like common sense, but it’s important to remember that your employees are people too. Just as you would want to be treated with respect, so should they. Showing courtesy and manners will go a long way in making your employees feel valued.
Be on time for meetings and other appointments. This shows that you value your employees’ time and that you respect their schedules. It also sets the tone for the meeting itself – if you’re late, it sends the message that the meeting isn’t important.
Say Please and Thank You Often
Saying please and thank you is always a good rule of thumb, no matter what your profession. But as a manager, it’s especially important because it shows that you value their work and appreciate their efforts. This will make your employees want to work harder for you.
For example, instead of saying “I need this report by 5:00 pm,” try “Could you please have this report done by 5:00 pm?” You’ll be surprised that such a simple adjustment is more likely to get a positive response.
Ask and Listen
One of the most important etiquette rules for managers is to ask questions and really listen to the answers. This signals to employees that you value their input and that you are interested in what they have to say. It also allows you to get to know your employees better and understand their needs and concerns.
So, next time you’re tempted to just give orders without listening first, remember that it’s important to ask questions and really hear what your employees have to say. It will help create a more positive work environment.
Prioritize Delegation Over Micro-management
As a manager, you must maximize the value of delegating responsibility to your team members. This allows them to take ownership of their work and feel more invested in the company’s success. It also helps to lighten your workload and free up your time so that you can focus on other tasks.
When delegating responsibility, be sure to give clear instructions and deadlines. It is also advisable to check in with your team members periodically to ensure that they are on track.
Delegating responsibility is a key management skill that will help you be more successful in your role. By taking the time to delegate, you can create a more effective and efficient team.
Problem Solve Early
Deal with problems as soon as they arise. If you wait too long to deal with a problem, it will only get worse and will be more difficult to solve. Additionally, your employees will respect and admire you more if you’re quick to address their concerns.
Also, when a problem arises, take the time to sit down with your employees and figure out a solution together. This will show them that you’re willing to work together to find a resolution. It will also give you a better understanding of their perspective on the situation.
Ask for Help; Acknowledge their Expertise
A lot of managers think that asking for help is a sign of weakness. However, this is not the case. Asking for help shows that you are willing to admit when you don’t know something and that you are willing to learn. This is a strength, not a weakness.
When you ask for help, you are also showing your team that you value their input and their expertise. This fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels like they are working together towards a common goal. Asking for help also shows that you are open to feedback and willing to listen to other people’s suggestions.
By following the basic etiquette rules outlined above, you will become a better manager. Your employees will respect you more and you will be able to create a more positive work environment.