5 Must-Have Skills for an Exceptional Manager

5 Must-Have Skills for an Exceptional Manager

Edited By Chandana P | Updated on Apr 02, 2025 03:42 PM IST

There are specific sets of manager skills that make a good and respected manager. Whether you are an experienced manager or a soon-to-be one, these manager skills are a must-have. This article explores the top skills for manager positions, essential for becoming a good leader and a valuable member of the organisation.

5 Must-Have Skills for an Exceptional Manager
5 Must-Have Skills for an Exceptional Manager

Who Is A Manager ?

A manager is someone who is responsible for managing a team or a department within an organisation. Managers oversee team members by motivating them and assessing their performance. They act as a bridge between the employees and the organisation leaders, boosting the morale of the employees and a good working culture.

Key Manager Skills For A Good Manager

There is no perfect formula that makes a good manager. However, some manager skills are necessary to become a good manager that successfully leads a team with focus on productivity and outcome. Below, we explore some of the key skills required to become manager.

Leadership

Good managers can guide their team to function properly and achieve common goals. They mentor and lead employees by guiding them with advice and feedback that encourages growth. By building rapport and providing accurate guidance, they prepare employees to work toward the organisation’s success. Leadership abilities can be learned and developed, enhancing your role as a manager by inspiring and influencing others. Hence, leadership skills are one of the essential manager skills required.

Also Read: Management Course

Interpersonal

The ultimate outcome of teamwork depends on the level of belongingness employees feel with the organisation and comfort they experience within the team. It is important for a manager to resonate with their team members to effectively facilitate teamwork. A manager is constantly communicating with people, whether it is mentoring a new employee or resolving a conflict or managing an entire team. Thus, communication and interpersonal skills are necessary skills needed for manager.

Decision Making

The ability to make decisions quickly and consciously is a crucial skill needed for manager roles. As the leader of a team or a department, it is important to make swift decisions that align with the organisation’s goals. This decision making process involves analyzing the scenario,considering opinions of others and then making an informed decision.

Adaptability And Flexibility

It is required that someone in a managerial position must be adaptable and flexible to change. Whether it is adjusting to hectic working schedules, coping with unexpected tasks or meeting new deadlines, a manager must be ready to confront challenges. Moreover, staying updated with the trends and industry demands helps a manager to carry out their role effectively, making this one among the top skills for a manager position.

Conflict management

Dealing with difficult employees is one of the most necessary manager skills required. Clearly defining expectations in advance and setting boundaries can be helpful in these situations. A manager might be interacting with employees in the office and in virtual spaces, and an exceptional manager is efficient in all of these channels. Resolving conflicts and addressing the concerns of employees skillfully irrespective of the platform,can make you an inspirational leader.

A great manager is not born; they are made. There is no perfect roadmap to become a manager. However, practicing these five important manager skills can help you to kickstart your journey as an empowering manager.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does a manager earn in India?

A person occupying  a managerial position in India earns an average salary of 4 Lakhs - 31.7 Lakhs annually

(Salary source: Ambitionbox)

2. What is the education requirement to become a manager?

A bachelor's degree in the relevant field  along with several years of working experience is the minimum requirement to become a manager in India. Some companies offering higher managerial positions, demand a masters degree.

3. How long does it take to become a manager?

The time required for becoming a manager varies according to the organization. An entry-level position might need only a few years of experience along with key skills needed for manager roles. For mid-level manager roles minimum 5-10 work experience is preferred according to the industry standards. Considering senior-level managerial positions required experience can range up to 10 to 20 years.

4. What does a manager do?

The responsibilities of a manager include,

  • Mentoring new employees

  • Motivating employees to complete given tasks

  • Giving advice and guidance

  • Feedback and suggestions for improvement

  • Acting as the bridge between employees and organization’s leadership

5. How can a manager become flexible according to different needs?

By assessing the needs and complexity of the project, developing key skills required to become manager, and by evaluating the abilities of employees, a manager can adjust and adapt their leadership style accordingly.

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