Management Is Team Work And Not Solo Practice

What makes a good manager? No one knows for sure. Just as we really do not know the origin of the universe and the evolution of mankind.

- Jagdish N Sheth

With more scientific discoveries about the moons and the stars, we are revising our knowledge of the solar system and about climate change. So is the case with the science of management.

What makes a good manager is a discovery science. Therefore, we will revise our theories and perspectives as we accumulate more knowledge. However, just as I know quality when I see it, even though I cannot articulate or explain it, we know a good manager when we see one.

We definitely know bad managers. A bad manager is rude, authoritative, and has a management caste mindset. Also, bad managers genuinely believe that they are superior in intellect as compared to those reporting to them; and that their job is to demand work, loyalty, and favours from their subordinates.

This still does not answer the question: What makes a good manager? As I was reflecting on this question, it reminded me of a research study we had carried out in the 70’s about what makes a great teacher. Contrary to expectations, a great teacher was great not just because of subject matter expertise but also because of listening skills (empathy) and passion for their work.