Best Practices for Managers

1. Communicate with Clarity and Intent

Clear, consistent communication is the cornerstone of effective management. Managers must articulate expectations, timelines, goals, and feedback in a way that leaves no room for confusion.

Best Practices:

• Use concise language in verbal and written communication.
• Schedule regular check-ins and team meetings.
• Ensure feedback is constructive, timely, and actionable.

2. Set Clear Goals and Expectations

Teams perform best when they understand not only what they’re doing but why it matters. When goals are aligned with the organization’s mission, employees feel more connected and motivated.

Best Practices:

• Establish SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
• Define roles and responsibilities to avoid overlap or ambiguity.
• Revisit goals regularly to track progress and make adjustments.

3. Lead by Example

The behavior and work ethic of a manager often set the tone for the entire team. Integrity, accountability, and professionalism are contagious—when leaders walk the walk, teams follow suit.

Best Practices:

• Demonstrate punctuality, transparency, and follow-through.
• Hold yourself to the same standards you expect from your team.
• Admit mistakes and turn them into learning opportunities.

4. Empower and Develop Your Team

Great managers recognize potential and cultivate it. Developing your team not only improves performance but also builds trust and increases retention.

Best Practices:

• Offer growth opportunities through mentoring, training, and stretch assignments.
• Delegate responsibility, not just tasks.
• Recognize achievements and celebrate milestones.

5. Encourage Open Feedback and Psychological Safety

When employees feel safe to speak up, ask questions, and share concerns, innovation and engagement thrive. Managers should create an environment where feedback flows both ways.

Best Practices:

• Invite feedback on your leadership style and team processes.
• Address concerns with empathy and without judgment.
• Normalize mistakes as part of the learning process.

6. Stay Solutions-Oriented

Challenges and setbacks are inevitable. A successful manager focuses on resolving problems rather than assigning blame.

Best Practices:

• Tackle issues with a mindset of improvement, not punishment.
• Facilitate collaborative problem-solving among team members.
• Keep the focus on progress, not perfection.

7. Manage Time and Priorities Wisely

Productive managers know how to prioritize work for themselves and their teams. This includes balancing urgent needs with long-term goals.

Best Practices:

• Use project management tools to stay organized.
• Minimize unnecessary meetings and distractions.
• Encourage time-blocking and focus sessions for deep work.

8. Foster Inclusion and Belonging

Today’s workplace is diverse in background, experience, and perspective. Managers play a key role in ensuring every voice is heard and valued.

Best Practices:

• Promote equity in decision-making and recognition.
• Educate yourself on unconscious bias.
• Be inclusive in team activities, communication styles, and recognition efforts.

Managing people is both an art and a science, it takes emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to growth. By integrating these best practices into your daily management style, you not only improve your team’s performance but also elevate your own leadership impact. Remember: great leaders aren’t born, they’re built through intentional habits, learning, and care for the people they serve.