Like a parent, like a teacher, like a manager

Thinking outside the box, being creative, and finding solutions that others may not see are key aspects of effective leadership. It requires both seeing the big picture and a detailed understanding of its components. When approached with a question or problem, a manager must always be prepared to provide an answer or solution. Even if uncertain, you should find the most reasonable solution possible. If necessary, you can seek additional information, consult with others to conclude as soon as possible, perform risk management, and then offer a viable option.

The commitment to finding solutions helps motivate the team to take the next step.

Solving problems is integral to a manager’s job, thus you do it constantly. There are endless ways to move forward, and you are in the center of a small circle that can turn in any direction. The idea is to plow the path that can take on all sorts of shapes toward the company’s goals, keeping them in mind at all times.

As a manager, it is essential to have an optimistic mindset and believe that a solution can be found for any problem. However, it is equally important to be realistic and recognize when a certain outcome is unachievable. This approach can prevent the wastage of resources on a project that should not be pursued or help manage a situation before it deteriorates into a crisis.

It is crucial for a manager to remember that people see you in your role first and foremost, and they approach you with this view. Therefore, it is important to respect them even if you are busy or unable to assist them. Listening, explaining, showing interest, asking questions, and helping them think, even if you don’t know the answer, are key qualities that can help you build trust with your employees.

If you need to reduce inquiries, you can provide your employees with problem-solving or creative-thinking workshops or other tools, and encourage them to take more decisions independantly, or you can delegate a manager under you who can filter the communication that reaches you. However, this does not detract from your role as a building block for your employees who need your support.

Approach each problem you encounter as a challenge, a riddle to solve, and a means to gain satisfaction in your work. With time, your efforts will pay off, and you will feel accomplished.

It’s difficult to be 100% available, but you should strive to be there for your employees who look up to you and need you, like a parent, like a teacher, like a manager.