My Dad’s funeral was this weekend, and it went as well as a funeral can go. We tried to make it a celebration of life. He certainly was a family man, and it was easy to remember all his good qualities. He drove me to skating at 4am many days when I was young even though I’m sure he was tired from a long week without ever complaining and even made a game out of catching green lights on the drive to the ice rink.
I also learned from some of his co-workers from his electrical engineering manager job prior to retirement (9 years ago) that he was amazing in that he was able to effectively perform his position without ever raising his voice or ever getting upset. I’ve found that all different types of managers can be effective – some are gregarious, some are creative, some are motivating, some demonstrate through action and the list goes on. I think it boils down to the following: is your heart in the right place, are you trustworthy and are you competent? If so, you’ll be respected.
One tip to implement this week:
I find that excellent managers defer to those who are gregarious or authoritative. Why are you doing that? Take a step back and think about what type of manager you are and what type you’d like to be. One is not better or worse than the other. Instead, think about your strengths and leverage them. If you build on strengths, you’ll be a better manager than if you try to follow some sort of “model” for good managers. Also, think about your manager. What is his/her strength? Can you point that out to them?
If you are an employee, think about the leaders you interact with everyday. Which do you know you can count on? Which would you go to for advice? Encouragement? You might find that you are under-appreciating someone. Take notice and say thank you. It could go a long way!
Several of my colleagues, clients and friends went over and beyond to lend support during this difficult time since my Dad’s stroke and passing. It certainly helps – what you might be able to do that takes 1 minute could make someone’s day or provide just the encouragement to take a leap forward.
October 26, 2015