Do you ever feel run down or stressed that you’re not doing as well as you could? If so, you can rest assured because you’re not alone. Being a manager can be hard and you may face a set of challenges along the way. But this doesn’t make you a bad manager.
Many key factors make a great manager, whether it be putting your colleagues first, having the correct leadership skills or simply communicating with your staff and clients in a friendly, professional manner.
Throughout this blog, we will be exploring the top 7 qualities of a good manager and how you can become the best possible version of yourself. For more information, read on.
1. Empathy and Understanding:
The first and one of the most important characteristics of a good manager is empathy and understanding. Great managers have empathy—a deep understanding of their team members’ perspectives, feelings, and challenges. They are always there to listen to their team, show genuine concern, and demonstrate compassion towards their employees.
Emphasising with your team allows you to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create a supportive work environment where your colleagues feel valued and understood.
A good manager will be there for their employees when they are feeling overwhelmed, run down, or stressed. This allows them to feel safe and supported in the workplace, which I believe is very important in any business.
2. Communication Skills:
Effective communication is a key quality of a good manager. Great managers excel in both verbal and written communication, communicating ideas clearly, concisely, and with empathy.
They actively listen to their team members, provide constructive feedback, and encourage open conversations. Strong communication skills allow you to align your team’s goals, resolve conflicts, and inspire collaboration, driving overall performance and success. Good communication is essential in all workplaces to build trust, enhance productivity, and encourage innovation.
3. Adaptability:
Adaptability is essential for managers to adapt to change quickly and effectively. Good managers remain flexible, open-minded, and resilient in the face of challenges.
They embrace innovation, encourage experimentation, and incorporate strategies when necessary. When you adapt to evolving circumstances, you can encourage confidence, promote a sense of stability, and lead your teams towards growth and success.
4. Leadership Skills:
In order to be an effective manager, you need to be able to lead your employees in an efficient and professional manner. The management qualities of a good manager include:
- Self-awareness
- Self-regulation
- Motivation
- Empathy
- Social skills
These are just some of the many key skills needed to be a good leader. These skills combined help leaders become more confident and assess their own strengths and weaknesses.
A good leader always looks out for their team, ensuring that things are running smoothly in the workplace as well as making sure everyone is on track. Team building is another great way to learn more about your employees as well as develop a relationship with them.
5. Accountability:
Taking accountability is a must for all managers. Good managers take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and outcomes, setting a high standard of integrity and accountability for their team.
They hold themselves and their employees to clear expectations, follow through on commitments, and address challenges. Encouraging accountability can help you build trust, promote ownership, and drive results.
6. Emotional Intelligence:
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a key attribute of great managers. It allows them to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others effectively. Managers with high EQ are self-aware, able to regulate their emotions, and more empathetic towards others.
They can build strong relationships and encourage trust and respect. Emotional intelligence allows you to create a positive work environment and improve employee engagement and satisfaction.
7. Developmental Focus:
Great managers prioritise the personal and professional development of each team member, investing in their professional and personal advancement.
Managers mentor, coach, and empower their employees, encouraging continuous improvement and career progression. When you encourage talent and unlock potential, you not only strengthen your teams but also contribute to the long-term success of the organisation.
Why is it Important to be a Good Manager?
Being a good manager is essential for the success and well-being of both employees and the organisation as a whole. Effective management plays a key role in:
- Encouraging productivity
- Promoting a positive work environment
- Achieving business objectives
Good managers inspire and motivate their teams to perform at their best. They provide clear direction, set strategic goals, and offer support and guidance, empowering employees to reach their full potential.
Recognising individual strengths allows you to create a culture of engagement and commitment, which leads to higher levels of job satisfaction and retention. Moreover, good managers ensure that resources are allocated efficiently, projects are executed effectively, and deadlines are met.
Overall, being a good manager is a must when it comes to creating a positive work environment, maximising employee potential, and achieving organisational goals.
When you display qualities of a good business manager, such as empathy, communication skills, adaptability, and visionary leadership skills, you can make a significant impact on the success and well-being of your teams and the organisation as a whole.
Improve Your Qualities as a Manager With Business Coaching
It’s one thing to know the qualities and characteristics of a good manager; however, implementing these qualities in your workplace can be difficult. If you have read this blog yet and still feel that you could benefit from some extra support and guidance, we at MOVE can help.
We understand that it can be difficult to run a successful business, which is why we provide business coaching sessions to help you become the best version of yourself.
If you are running a business, whether you are a small business owner or have been a business owner for quite some time, business coaching can help you achieve long-term business growth.
We can help you improve your qualities to help you become the best manager you can be through our business coaching sessions. Managing a business can feel lonely; however, with us by your side, you are never alone, and we are here to help you thrive.
For more information on the services we offer or to speak to a member of our team, contact us today at 07852 970 718. We look forward to hearing from you.

Mark is a multi-award winner in business networking and relationship building. He is passionate about coaching and mentoring business owners and professionals through 1-1 & group coaching, team performance workshops and group mastermind sessions.