"Focus on People" Article by Tina Zawila

An Australian Institute of Management event I attended recently was “Management Explained” by Devora Zack.  Devora is an international speaker and author specialising in the field of leadership development.

Most managers become managers simply because they were very good at what they do and therefore they are “promoted”.  For example a good tradie, often becomes a supervisor or team leader – however, just because they are good at what they do doesn’t necessarily mean that they will be good managers – or even that they want to be a manager!

Often these new managers are not given adequate training or tools/techniques to deal with the issues arising in a management role such as emotions, conflicts and personalities, whilst still achieving goals, targets and deadlines.

Devora believes that it is important to identify our own “management style” that fits who you really are.  She identifies two styles – “thinkers” and “feelers”, and encourages managers to be true to themselves, and their own style to be successful, whilst recognising the “style” of their team members to be more effective in managing and communicating with them in a way that they will relate and respond to.

Generally speaking, “thinkers” communicate directly, are focussed, productive and efficient and like clear lines of responsibility and authority.  “Feelers” on the other hand, are focussed on friendly interactions, want to build rapport and relationships and like positive reinforcement.

If you try to communicate with a strong “thinker” by using a “feeler’s” language and approach, you may find that they will have “tuned out” at the first “So, how was your weekend?” question.  Similarly, if you approach a strong “feeler” with a direct approach without exchanging any “pleasantries”, they will be thinking about “what is wrong with the relationship, that you don’t care enough to ask how they are?”, rather than focussing on your message.

The key is to “treat others as they would like to be treated”, whilst still staying true to your own management style.  The more we focus on people, the more successful we will be.

Have your managers been given adequate training?
What kind of “management style” do you have?
Is there a particular technique you use within management you find most effective?

At Sothertons we are committed to lifelong learning and we are always keen to share and receive good ideas – call us on 4972 1300 to discuss your thoughts on Management Styles and Techniques.