Different methods and principles guide the decisions of management, but all of them sooner or later need to be put into practice. You know, to put your mouth where your money is, and I’m going to show you how it’s done.
Definition of Management Practices
Management practices are the working methods and innovations that managers use to make the organization more efficient. It sounds good, right? Well, I’m happy to tell you that it’s backed by research. It’s no surprise then that every company wants to improve their management practices, but the question is how?
The right practices
Although there are several ways to implement good management practices, I’m going to highlight the ones I feel are more relevant. Some of them may seem like common sense, but if there’s one thing I learned in businesses is never assume common sense, and I advise you to do the same.
Economic incentives for everyone. Managers should not be the only ones with extra pay. Don’t underestimate how much financial incentives can motivate the rest of the workers, just make sure they deserve it.
Give regular, meaningful feedback. Employees always respond better to a manager that takes its time to provide useful feedback, even if it is negative. It shows that they care about their work.
Employees are also individuals, show them respect. To put it simply, don’t treat your employees like rubbish. An employee that feels respected will do its best to correspond that respect.
Managers must train. Learning doesn’t stop with a degree. Make sure you keep training your managers, new problems require new skills.
Support your employees. Let your employees know you’re there for them when they need it. I assure you they will remember it.
Acknowledge the employee’s emotions. You must understand that workers have feelings and how to deal with them, they are people, not machines.
Leadership by example. Practice what you preach. Managers who act in ways that the employees do not respect, like hypocrisy, will find its employees unmotivated.
Keep up with new technologies. You need to stay informed regarding the new technologies available to your organization if you want to stay competitive. Upgrade or die, simple as that.