A manager has some basic elements that significantly influence his/her growth in an organisation. These are referred to as "people elements".
These elements include managing relationships with co-workers, respect for support staff and learning to talk upfront or straight. I believe that these important qualities for a manager cannot be taught at any B-school.
Although B-schools provide a platform to cultivate these qualities through activities like role playing and projects, the experience gained from these assignments is limited. The day-to-day challenge in the form of people management in an organisation is far different.
A common perception is that, to be considered a successful manager, managing the immediate team is enough. Often, less importance is given to roles played by support staff, especially at lower levels.
For a successful manager, it is important to remember that it would be impossible for an organisation or a manager to function smoothly and perform consistently without efficient co-operation from the support staff.
They enable managers to concentrate on the core objectives and perform more efficiently. Recognising this and learning to respect and value their time, abilities and emotions will come only through experience.
This experience also conveys the importance of "straight talk" in a business environment. It means clear communication and it is one of the most effective ways to achieve optimum results.
It is the ability of a manager to communicate clear and frank opinions, suggestions and feedback to superiors, subordinates or colleagues. If it is not an inherent ability, straight talking must necessarily be developed by a manager over time.
People elements may seem easy to practice but they can only be learnt and honed in real-life situations. When an organisation hires a person, it usually focuses only on his skill sets and abilities. People elements can be demonstrated only in real-life situations and it is your expertise here that will win you the respect of your colleagues and seniors.
Ajay Mittal is vice president, brand and marketing, Lenovo (India). He graduated from the Narsee Monji Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, in 1993.
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