Identifying a good manager has less to do with what they say (although you should definitely listen if it’s your manager), and more to do with how they act and the “fruit” that they produce. A good manager knows they don’t have to brag (nor do they have time for it), because their hard work, leadership and devotion to their staff will speak volumes without them even having to utter a word. Do you wonder what category your management skills fall under? Below are 5 ways to identify a good manager.

They Love to Develop Employee Skills

Each employee comes into a job with a set of skills, however, each individual has the ability to grow if they are encouraged to do so. A good manager will recognize that if each employee continues to develop their skills, then they will work at a higher level and will likely have higher company loyalty. Having a plan in place to help each employee move to the next level in their experience and skill set will create a higher level of performance as a whole.

Part of developing employee skills is leading by example. A good manager will create a learning environment within the workplace by encouraging employees to ask questions when they don’t know the answer. Leading by example, a manager will not hide away or create an answer when they don’t know. They will say, “I will find out and follow back up with you” and then make sure to follow through with the correct information. This will inspire your employees to do the same within their own position.

They Spend Quality Time

There is a difference between spending quality time with your team to build good work relationships and spending too much personal time. A good manager knows where to draw the line, while also building a solid work bond. Your employees need to see the fun side of you while also enjoying time with their co-workers. Having a monthly team building event will help cultivate great work relationships, giving your team a break from the norm, while also still providing professional boundaries.

They Don’t Get Worked Up Easily

Good managers can practice self control when it comes to emotionally charged or unexpected situations. They are the calm in the storm. Even when employees are being outright subordinate, a good manager has the ability to remain professional in their interactions without letting emotions get the better of them.

They See Employees as Individuals

We are all about team spirit and working as a unit, but a good manager treats each employee as an individual asset. Each employee brings to the table a specific set of skills, a unique personality and also a few of their own weaknesses. It is the job of a good manager to find a way that best works for each employee. Some respond well to challenges and high goals, others prefer a smaller list of tasks that ultimately reach a higher goal. Some employees love being recognized in front of the group, while others would rather a nice card and little fuss. Treating each employee as individuals rather than a whole group will help your team thrive because everyone feels as though they have a place and are being heard.

They Find The Teaching Moments

As humans, we all will eventually make mistakes. A good manager will anticipate this and look for the teaching moments. Every mistake that is made is a learning opportunity. Giving the employee room to talk through their mistake and develop a plan to do better in the future will help them avoid making the same mistake again.

We have all had our challenges as managers. Some fall into these specific categories, while others are a different kind of monster. It’s hard sometimes to know if what you are doing is making a difference. Being able to maintain control over your emotions, find teaching moments, relax with your team, develop skills and treat employees individually are all signs that you are a great manager. If you are working on these traits and others, you are doing a great job.