When a company hires executives and managers, they expect us to address, reduce, and manage their issues and problems.
If there were no issues or problems, they wouldn’t need to employ us. So, don’t go to work saying, “I have problems,” or “the company has problems.” Those problems are your tasks to manage.
I am writing this article because I see many managers losing out by only managing within the scope of their technical skills without considering the broader magnitude of the business and organization.
As a result, they remain in management roles and find it difficult to shift their mindset to becoming leaders.
This article aims to explain the various functions of a manager in a broader and more strategic context.
The role of a manager becomes even more important in this dynamic and fast-pace business world. Managers are not only responsible for overseeing daily operations but also play a crucial role in managing various aspects of the company to ensure long-term success and sustainability.
Here are some key functions of a manager in optimizing company performance:
1. Manage Problems
Managers need to identify and resolve issues that arise in daily operations. This includes problems related to human resources, finance, and operations. The ability to solve problems quickly and effectively is key to maintaining the stability and smooth running of the company.
2. Manage Potential
Managers should identify the potential of each employee and help them develop their skills. This includes providing training, mentorship, and career development opportunities. By managing employee potential, managers can increase productivity and job satisfaction among staff.
3. Manage Opportunities
Managers need to identify and capitalize on opportunities for the company’s growth and development. This includes new market opportunities, new technologies, and innovations in products or services. By leveraging these opportunities, the company can grow and achieve competitive advantages.
4. Manage Differences in Views for Optimal Performance
Differing views can lead to innovation and creative solutions. Managers should encourage constructive discussions and debates among staff to achieve the best decisions. By managing differences in views, managers can optimize company operations and improve overall performance.
5. Manage Diverse Opinions
Managers need to appreciate and manage the diversity of opinions within the team. This includes recognizing each team member’s contributions and ensuring all opinions are heard and considered. Diverse opinions can lead to new ideas and increased creativity within the company.
6. Manage Costs
Managers are responsible for managing the company’s operational costs. This includes planning and monitoring budgets, finding ways to reduce costs, and ensuring efficient use of resources. By effectively managing costs, managers can increase profitability and ensure the company’s financial sustainability.
7. Manage Innovation
Managers also need to manage innovation within the company. This includes fostering a culture of innovation, identifying new technologies, and implementing necessary changes to remain competitive. Good innovation management can help the company grow and better face market challenges.
8. Manage Communication
Managers must ensure clear and effective communication at all levels of the company. This includes providing clear instructions, listening to feedback from staff, and ensuring important information is conveyed accurately and promptly. Good communication is the foundation for smooth operations and effective problem-solving.
9. Manage Customer Relationships Managers are also responsible for managing relationships with customers. This includes ensuring customer satisfaction, effectively handling complaints, and building long-term relationships with customers. Good customer relationships are crucial for ensuring long-term success and sustainability.
10. Manage Quality
Managers must ensure that the products or services offered by the company meet established quality standards. This includes overseeing production processes, identifying and resolving quality issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, the functions of a manager are crucial in optimizing company performance.
By effectively managing problems, potential, opportunities, differences in views, diverse opinions, costs, innovation, communication, customer relationships, and quality, managers can ensure the long-term success and growth of the company.
Successful leaders are those who can see opportunities in every challenge and manage resources wisely for shared success.
