Often, managers primarily strive to be liked by their subordinates. Instead of fostering a sense of responsibility in their team, they turn a blind eye to their employees’ shortcomings. They give weaker employees the impression that everything is fine. Such managers seek agreement from their subordinates rather than respect. This, strangely enough, leads to a loss of trust within the team.
If you seek agreement rather than respect, then you are choosing the wrong goals, and this leads to catastrophic results.
Ask yourself what you would want to receive from a manager if you were your own subordinate. The answer will be simple:
1. The truth. The whole truth that exists.
2. Full and open communication about what is happening with employees and the company.
3. Keep your word. Even the smallest promises should be fulfilled. Especially the smallest ones.
If you promised to call your regional manager back in the evening, make sure to do it in the evening. If you couldn’t keep your promise, apologize immediately and provide a new time. People need to know that you are a person of your word.
A manager doesn’t need to have any special friendly relationships with subordinates. This can be detrimental to the work. A manager shouldn’t strive to please everyone—it’s impossible to satisfy everyone. A manager shouldn’t pander or try to avoid bothering people. Honesty and openness are the keys to earning respect. Responsibility and self-discipline, rather than affection for you, are the values you should instill in your subordinates.