How to be a better a manager - tips from an employee.

I think it's safe to say we've all had a variety of bosses in our working lives. Some great, some... not so great. I'm not talking about work load or a job in particular, but how managers actually manage their employees well-being and overall work environment. 

I have had such a wide range of managers since working from the age of seventeen, and being a support worker myself now, I want to share some tips on how to be a better manager, for the sake of those who work under you. 

• Listen to your employees feedback. 
  
  If you want your employees to respect and listen to you, you should first listen to them. I know having the job of managing a whole team can be trying, and you notice that your employees are not doing their best or putting in a lot of effort - maybe it's time to listen to their needs. Start a suggestions box, have your employees have an input in to how you manage them. After all, it's their workplace too.
  
• Be the motivator.
  
  A lot of times, employees will have built up a lot of anxiety and stress over working towards deadlines and doing things to your standard. Instead of telling your worker off, or constantly telling your employees what needs improving - try praising them for things they do well. This is a great way to get your employees feeling better and more motivated to keep up the good work.
  
  
  
• Realise not every single worker is the same person.
  
  No matter the size of your team, you should take your employees well-being in to account. If one employee seems anxious and is taking more breaks than usual, not engaging with the team or even responding to work emails - seek out how they are feeling. Remember, not every employee works at the same pace or rate as others. Perhaps taking a Mental Health Awareness or Mental Health first aid course will provide better information on how to assist your employees.
  
• Not everything is the worker's fault.
  
  I've had a manager that put low targets and low feedback blame purely on the workers. It's time to realise that you as a manager may need improvement too. Managers meetings are a great way to learn how to manage and provide for your team better. Remember to stick up for your own team too!
  
  
  
• Be a leader, not an intimidating boss. 
  
  If you notice your workers aren't coming to you a lot, and you spot them asking each other for tips and advice, perhaps it's time to work on that. I mean, it's natural to be weary of your boss, but don't blow your lid whenever a worker asks about holidays and time off. It's why they're given those days! Remember that you get the time off that you ask for, it has to be same for your workers.
  
  
  I understand being a manager comes with a lot of pressure, but you certainly shouldn't take it out on those under you, who are working towards the same targets as you. Remember your a team, not a dictatorship!

Recommended books: 

• The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You
• Becoming a Better Boss
• The First Time Manager