The role of a manager is, by many, considered the cornerstone of organizational success. But not everyone is destined for the managerial chair, and for good reason. The corridors of leadership require a blend of skills, traits, and competencies—and not everyone possesses them. Many a promising career path is decimated when an otherwise competent worker is promoted to the next level of incompetence.
In the world of business where leadership reigns supreme, the question surfaces: why isn’t everyone cut out to be a good manager? Here’s what I think:
Effective managers have to be leaders. They set a course, make pivotal decisions, and inspire teams. But leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all quality; it’s a characteristic of a few and a desire of the many. These leaders have to also be conduits of communication. They must articulate a vision listen, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts. Mastering these skills is a lofty order not everyone can fill.
Emotional intelligence is a trait that can feel nebulous but is a vital quality for managers, it lets them navigate the world of human emotions. Not everyone possesses the finesse needed to steer this landscape. Managers are decision-makers in chief. From critical choices to everyday conundrums, good decision-making calls for analytical savvy and risk management skills that not everyone naturally possesses.
Time management and delegation are a must for managers—from juggling tasks to prioritizing and meeting deadlines. Like the other must-have manager qualities, time management isn’t a freebie or a universal gift. And delegating tasks is essential but hard. Many leaders find it challenging, fearing a loss of control. A smart manager simply knows when to outsource trust and management of processes and systems. Consider managed IT services for example.
Conflicts are part and parcel of any workplace. A manager with conflict resolution skills is a keeper, but not everyone excels in managing disputes constructively. The corporate world is in a constant state of flux, and managers must adapt to ever-changing dynamics. Not everyone thrives in this sea of change.
You may have heard of the Peter principle. This is a concept in management noted by Laurence J. Peter which observes that people in a hierarchy tend to rise to “a level of respective incompetence”. Another way of saying this is, that employees are promoted based on their success in previous jobs until they reach a level at which they are no longer competent, as skills in one job do not necessarily translate to another.
Not everyone harbors a deep-seated interest in managing people or the motivation to shoulder the responsibilities of a managerial role. For some, contentment lies in their current positions. Management roles often come with a hefty dose of stress and not everyone has the capacity to manage this stress effectively.
The road to becoming an effective manager is not one easily traveled. While this long list of skills and traits can be honed with time and experience, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to recognize the unique qualities that make an exceptional manager. Not everyone will ascend to this role, but with support and a willingness to evolve, many rise to the challenge and forge a path to effective management.