Increase the Level of Living with Happiness (Fourth Phase)
Md. Asaduzzaman
Learning & Development || Personal and Professional Coach || Fleet Management || Facility Management || Administration || HR ||
2.3. Managerial Skills:
Within the professional landscape, the convergence of “work effeciency” and adept communication abilities often serves as a gateway to coveted promotions and managerial positions. Nevertheless, to thrive in these leadership roles and navigate projects towards successful outcomes, it becomes imperative to prioritize the following nine foundational principles:
2.3.1 Goal-oriented Planning: Planning stands as the cornerstone of effective execution, serving as the blueprint that guides the trajectory of work. Managers, in collaboration with their team members, are tasked with crafting meticulous plans that delineate the pathway toward achieving organizational objectives over the course of the year. These plans should be intricately detailed, outlining specific actions and milestones essential for realizing end-of-year goals. Transparency and accessibility are paramount, akin to architectural blueprints laid bare for all stakeholders to comprehend and contribute toward. Through meticulous planning, managers not only establish a clear roadmap for success but also foster alignment and cohesion among team members, ensuring collective efforts are channeled towards a common purpose.
2.3.2 Decision Making: Decision-making is a pivotal aspect of managerial responsibility, requiring a judicious blend of past insights and experiential wisdom. Managers leverage their wealth of knowledge and prior experiences as foundational pillars upon which decisions are crafted. However, they also recognize the invaluable contributions of their subordinates, who possess firsthand insights and factual perspectives garnered through their active involvement in the operational landscape. Harnessing this collective wisdom, managers embark on a deliberative process, weighing multifaceted factors such as cost-effectiveness, time efficiency, and quality assurance. In navigating the decision-making terrain, managers adhere to a set of fundamental considerations: drawing from prior experience to inform present choices, soliciting input from subordinates to foster inclusive decision-making, evaluating affordability to ensure fiscal prudence, navigating time constraints with dexterity, and upholding a steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. By embracing these guiding principles, managers navigate the complexities of decision-making with acumen and foresight, steering their teams toward success amidst dynamic operational landscapes.
2.3.3. Problem Solving: Problem-solving constitutes a cornerstone of managerial prowess, epitomizing a manager's adeptness in navigating challenges spanning the gamut from operational hurdles to interpersonal dynamics. Central to this competency is the astute identification and resolution of issues permeating subordinates' work, behavior, or morale, thereby fostering a harmonious and productive organizational milieu. The hallmark of effective problem-solving lies not merely in rectifying surface-level manifestations but in delving deep to address root causes, effectuating enduring solutions that fortify organizational resilience. Managers adept in this art form exhibit a keen ability to navigate the intricate interplay of variables, swiftly devising strategies to realign teams and processes in pursuit of overarching objectives. Recognizing the pernicious implications of recurring issues, astute managers equip themselves with a diverse repertoire of problem-solving methodologies, ranging from structured approaches to creative brainstorming sessions. By cultivating a culture of proactive problem-solving, managers not only forestall operational bottlenecks but also nurture an ethos of continuous improvement, propelling their teams toward sustained excellence amidst the dynamic currents of organizational exigencies.
2.3.4. Appropriate Work Delegation: A hallmark of managerial competence lies in the artful orchestration of work delegation, a process that hinges upon the meticulous delineation of job responsibilities for subordinates. Astute managers recognize that the efficacy of task allocation hinges upon a nuanced consideration of various factors, including but not limited to individual skill sets, positional hierarchies, seniority, and remuneration structures within the team. By cognizantly integrating these factors into the delegation process, managers engender a sense of equity and alignment between job assignments and the capabilities of each team member, thereby fostering a harmonious and productive work environment. Conversely, a failure to calibrate task allocation in accordance with these considerations may precipitate discord and dissatisfaction among employees, ultimately undermining workforce morale and eroding operational efficiency. Thus, judicious and discerning work delegation stands as a linchpin of managerial acumen, facilitating the optimal utilization of human capital and propelling organizational success.
2.3.5. Follow-up: A cornerstone of effective managerial practice resides in the conscientious oversight and follow-up of subordinates' tasks. Given the managerial mandate to steward and oversee the execution of work, exemplary managers undertake the responsibility of vigilantly tracking the progress of assigned tasks to ensure their timely completion. By adopting a proactive approach to follow-up, managers not only affirm their accountability for the outcomes of delegated tasks but also engender a culture of accountability and ownership among team members. Through regular and systematic follow-up, managers can identify potential bottlenecks, provide timely support and guidance, and mitigate any emerging challenges before they escalate into significant impediments to productivity. Moreover, by maintaining open channels of communication and soliciting feedback from subordinates during follow-up interactions, managers foster a collaborative work environment conducive to innovation and continuous improvement. Thus, diligent follow-up emerges as an indispensable managerial practice, facilitating the attainment of organizational objectives and the cultivation of a high-performing workforce.
2.3.6. Time Management: At the core of proficient management lies the adept orchestration of time to optimize productivity and meet organizational objectives. A hallmark of effective managerial practice is the meticulous oversight of tasks and the judicious allocation of time to ensure their timely completion. Central to this endeavor is the imperative for managers to maintain a comprehensive understanding of each subordinate's workload, impending deadlines, and project milestones. This entails the formulation of meticulously crafted daily, weekly, and monthly schedules delineating the sequence and duration of tasks to be undertaken by team members. By proactively organizing and prioritizing tasks in alignment with overarching goals and project timelines, managers not only cultivate a culture of efficiency and accountability but also mitigate the risk of resource misallocation and project delays. Furthermore, adept time management enables managers to optimize resource utilization, minimize idle time, and capitalize on opportunities for process optimization and innovation. Through the judicious allocation of time and resources, managers foster a dynamic and agile work environment conducive to sustained organizational success and competitive advantage. Thus, effective time management emerges as a linchpin of managerial excellence, underpinning the attainment of operational efficiency and the realization of strategic objectives.
2.3.7. Process Development: In an era marked by rapid technological evolution, adept managers distinguish themselves by harnessing cutting-edge innovations to optimize and streamline work processes. As technological advancements proliferate across industries, embracing these transformative tools and methodologies emerges as a hallmark of managerial excellence. Competent managers adeptly leverage emerging technologies to drive process development initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, productivity, and organizational agility. By proactively identifying inefficiencies and bottlenecks within existing workflows, managers can implement targeted process improvements and automation solutions to streamline task execution and resource allocation. Moreover, through the strategic integration of digital tools and platforms, managers foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, positioning their teams for sustained success in an increasingly dynamic and competitive landscape. By embracing technology-enabled process development initiatives, managers not only optimize resource utilization and mitigate operational risks but also cultivate a culture of adaptability and resilience within their organizations. Thus, by capitalizing on the transformative potential of technological innovation, astute managers drive organizational growth and competitiveness, propelling their teams toward greater efficiency and excellence.
2.3.8. Feedback and Correction: In the realm of effective management, customer feedback serves as a vital compass for evaluating the quality and accuracy of completed work. A hallmark of adept managerial practice entails promptly recognizing and addressing any areas of concern or dissatisfaction highlighted through customer feedback channels. By actively soliciting and attentively listening to customer input, managers gain invaluable insights into the efficacy of their team's efforts and the alignment of deliverables with customer expectations. Moreover, leveraging customer feedback as a catalyst for continuous improvement, astute managers implement corrective measures to rectify any identified shortcomings or discrepancies, thereby fostering a culture of responsiveness and adaptability within the organization. By embracing feedback as a constructive tool for refinement rather than criticism, managers empower their teams to iterate and enhance their performance, ultimately driving greater customer satisfaction and loyalty. Thus, by prioritizing feedback collection and correction initiatives, managers demonstrate a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, positioning their teams for sustained success and customer-centricity in a competitive marketplace.
2.3.9. Enhancing Team Efficiency: In the realm of effective management, cultivating a high-performing team hinges upon addressing employee satisfaction and aligning organizational practices with the aspirations and well-being of the workforce. Recognizing that employee engagement is intricately linked to productivity, astute managers prioritize active listening and responsiveness to the needs, desires, and concerns of their team members. By fostering an environment where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered, managers not only inspire a sense of ownership and commitment but also cultivate a culture of collaboration and mutual support. Through transparent communication channels and empathetic leadership, managers can gain valuable insights into the factors influencing team morale and performance, enabling them to implement targeted strategies for enhancing workplace satisfaction and motivation. Furthermore, by championing a shared vision and fostering a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, managers inspire their teams to harness their collective strengths and talents, driving greater efficiency and effectiveness in achieving organizational objectives. Thus, by nurturing a culture of employee-centricity and empowerment, managers lay the foundation for sustained team success and organizational excellence in a dynamic and competitive landscape.
By prioritizing these aspects, managers can refine their skills, cultivate a conducive work environment, and propel success within their teams and projects. Through continuous improvement and attention to detail, managers can elevate their leadership capabilities, inspire their team members, and foster a culture of excellence and collaboration. By honing their managerial skills and actively engaging with their teams, managers not only enhance individual and collective performance but also lay the groundwork for long-term success and achievement. Ultimately, by embracing these principles and committing to ongoing development, managers can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and drive positive outcomes in their professional endeavors.
2.4. Leadership Skill:
Leadership is a cornerstone of success in the professional sphere, wielding profound influence over organizational dynamics and outcomes. While individual contributions are invaluable, the true power lies in the collective efforts of a team. A leader, endowed with the capacity to unite disparate individuals, serves as the catalyst for achievement, driving synergy and collaboration toward common goals. Unlike mere wielders of authority, true leaders eschew coercion in favor of inspiration, adeptly rallying their team members to embrace challenges with enthusiasm and dedication. They command not through fear, but through the genuine respect and admiration earned through their exemplary conduct and unwavering commitment to shared objectives. By cultivating specific habits and mindsets, individuals can nurture and refine their leadership skills, empowering themselves to guide and inspire others effectively. These transformative habits include:
2.4.1. Stop Backbite or Criticize: In the intricate tapestry of human interactions, each individual brings forth a unique blend of emotions, characteristics, and traits that shape their personality. Naturally, given this diversity, it's inevitable that not everyone will resonate with every aspect of another person's speech, behavior, manners, or work style. In response to these differences, it's common for people to succumb to the temptation of engaging in slander, gossip, criticism, and complaints about others in their absence. However, such behavior, while seemingly innocuous or even cathartic in the moment, can have far-reaching repercussions. Criticizing someone behind their back has the potential to sow seeds of misunderstanding and discord among individuals. It can breed resentment, erode trust, and ultimately lead to conflicts that undermine the fabric of professional relationships. Moreover, this negativity can tarnish one's reputation and impair their ability to collaborate effectively in the workplace. Recognizing the detrimental impact of such actions, it becomes imperative to exercise restraint and refrain from indulging in criticism whenever possible. By choosing to rise above the temptation to disparage others behind their backs, individuals not only demonstrate integrity and maturity but also cultivate an environment of respect and trust. In doing so, they position themselves as leaders by example, garnering the admiration and confidence of their peers.
Consider a scenario where individuals A, B, and C find themselves working closely together within the confines of the same department, under the supervision of a shared boss. Among them, the bond between A and C flourishes, characterized by mutual respect and camaraderie. However, the relationship between A and B is fraught with tension, stemming from fundamental differences in work styles and approaches. In such a dynamic, A finds solace in confiding criticisms of B to C, perhaps seeking validation or venting frustrations. However, as fate would have it, a rift emerges between A and C due to unrelated circumstances, leading to simmering resentment. Seizing upon the opportunity to retaliate, C divulges the criticisms leveled against B by A, further stoking animosity between A and B. Fuelled by a sense of injustice and wounded pride, B harbors deep-seated animosity towards A, compounded by the betrayal of trust. Joined by C, the duo plots a course of action aimed at retribution, seeking to undermine A's standing within the organization. In their quest for vindication, B and C resort to manipulative tactics, fabricating grievances and distortions of truth to present a damning portrayal of A to their boss. Regrettably, the boss, swayed by the weight of collective testimony, succumbs to the allure of confirmation bias, rendering a verdict against A. As a consequence of this orchestrated campaign, A finds themselves ostracized and marginalized, their reputation tarnished, and their prospects within the company jeopardized. In the ruthless arena of office politics, where alliances shift and loyalties waver, the repercussions of unchecked criticism reverberate with devastating effect. In the realm of criticism, discretion is paramount. Just as fish in a pond are enticed by bait and fall prey to hooks when they open their mouths, those who engage in gossip and criticism are ensnared in danger. By keeping silent, individuals sidestep the pitfalls of slander and uphold trust and respect among peers. Their quiet dignity garners admiration, and their words hold significance. Conversely, yielding to the temptation to criticize perpetuates discord, impeding one's path to leadership. Hence, the cautionary tale underscores the imperative of exercising discretion in matters of critique and gossip. In a realm where perceptions shape reality, the adage "loose lips sink ships" rings truer than ever. By maintaining silence in the face of temptation and refraining from sowing seeds of discord, individuals safeguard not only their own interests but also the delicate fabric of trust that binds professional relationships.
2.4.2. Appreciation: Every human being possesses a common desire to be appreciated. The ability to satisfy this hunger for recognition gives a person influence over others. When individuals receive genuine praise and appreciation for their actions, they develop a sense of loyalty towards the person who acknowledges their efforts. For example, if a homemaker's cooking has a mistake, and someone notices this, such as using too little or too much salt, the quality of the meal may suffer day by day. However, when the cooking is appreciated, the homemaker becomes motivated to explore new recipes and improve their culinary skills. Similarly, when a person receives appreciation for their work, they become more engaged and interested in pursuing creative endeavors. A person once asked why he received the highest salary among their peers, and his response highlighted the power of appreciation. He acknowledged that there were many more talented and deserving individuals working under him, but his secret was simply appreciating the work of others without expecting more from them.
2.4.3. Active Listening: Allowing individuals to express themselves fully can provide them with a sense of self-satisfaction. When a person patiently and sincerely listens to others, they foster a deep connection with them. In some cases, a manager may exhibit negative behavior towards his subordinates, constantly complaining about any minor mistakes they make. This approach can be detrimental to the subordinates' focus and the overall quality of their work, ultimately impacting the manager's performance. Seeking guidance from a mentor, the manager learned a valuable lesson in active listening. The mentor advised the manager to sit down with each subordinate individually and simply listen to them. They encouraged the manager to inquire about their family situation, how their day was going, how their work could be improved, and other aspects of their lives. Following this advice, the manager witnessed a remarkable increase in productivity among his team members.
2.4.4. Courtesy: "Respect begets respect" encapsulates the essence of courtesy in interpersonal interactions. When an individual consistently demonstrates politeness, humility, and gentleness towards others, irrespective of their status or background, they naturally command respect in return. This ethos extends beyond professional settings, as it reflects one's character and manners in all spheres of life. Whether interacting with office support staff, service workers, or individuals from diverse backgrounds, the display of courtesy speaks volumes about one's leadership qualities. A good leader exemplifies courtesy in their conduct, fostering an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie among all stakeholders.
2.4.5. Admitting Own Guilt: The willingness to acknowledge one's own mistakes sets individuals apart from their peers, signaling integrity and accountability. Those who possess this quality demonstrate a heightened self-awareness and are less prone to repeating errors. In the realm of leadership, admitting one's faults is a hallmark of effective leadership. A good leader embraces responsibility for their actions, fostering trust and credibility among their team members. By setting an example of humility and accountability, they inspire others to do the same, creating a culture of transparency and continuous improvement within the organization.
2.4.6. Avoiding Repeated Mistakes: Repeatedly making the same mistakes not only undermines one's credibility but also diminishes their effectiveness as a leader. Effective leaders recognize the importance of learning from past errors and actively strive to avoid repeating them. By cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and self-reflection, they demonstrate resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. A good leader acknowledges mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, leveraging them to inform future decisions and propel the team forward towards success.
2.4.7. Others' Reactions or Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with others' reactions and emotions is a fundamental trait of effective leadership. Leaders who prioritize the opinions, needs, desires, and preferences of their team members cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment. Just as individuals are drawn to those who show care and concern in personal interactions, team members gravitate towards leaders who demonstrate empathy and consideration. By actively listening to and valuing the input of others, leaders foster trust, respect, and camaraderie within the team. This not only enhances collaboration and productivity but also promotes a sense of belonging and mutual support among team members.
2.4.8. Commitment: Commitment is the cornerstone of integrity and reliability in personal and professional life. It entails honoring promises and obligations made to oneself and others. Whether these commitments are to family, colleagues, or superiors, it is imperative to approach them with sincerity and diligence. However, it's essential to acknowledge that unforeseen circumstances may arise, making it challenging to fulfill every commitment within the designated time frame. In such cases, effective communication becomes paramount. Leaders must prioritize transparency and honesty, promptly informing stakeholders if a commitment cannot be met as initially agreed upon. By doing so, they uphold trust and credibility, demonstrating accountability and respect for others' time and expectations. Small promises should be treated with the same level of importance as significant commitments, as they collectively shape one's reputation and influence as a leader.
2.4.9. Democracy: In the realm of leadership, embracing a democratic approach fosters inclusivity and garners respect among team members. Unlike autocratic leaders who wield unilateral authority, democratic leaders prioritize collective input and consensus-building in decision-making processes. By actively soliciting and valuing the perspectives and contributions of team members, democratic leaders cultivate a culture of empowerment and collaboration. This approach not only enhances team morale and cohesion but also promotes innovation and ownership among individuals. Ultimately, democratic leaders earn admiration and respect for their inclusive leadership style, fostering a harmonious and productive work environment.
2.4.10. Honesty: Honesty stands as a cornerstone of effective leadership, demanding unwavering integrity and transparency in all endeavors. Even in the face of temptation or adversity, a true leader upholds the value of truth, refraining from deceitful practices or misleading statements. While the allure of deception may seem enticing momentarily, the repercussions of dishonesty tarnish one's reputation irreparably. A leader's credibility hinges upon their commitment to truthfulness, as even a single falsehood can erode trust and undermine their leadership influence. Therefore, honesty remains non-negotiable on the path to leadership excellence, distinguishing honorable leaders from those who falter in their integrity.
2.4.11. Sacrificing Short-term Benefits for Long-term Gains: True leaders exhibit foresight and wisdom, recognizing that enduring success often requires sacrifices in the present for the sake of greater triumphs in the future. Instead of succumbing to the allure of instant gratification, they prioritize long-term gains over fleeting rewards. This strategic mindset enables them to navigate challenges with resilience and perseverance, knowing that their sacrifices today pave the way for lasting prosperity tomorrow. By embracing delayed gratification and maintaining a steadfast commitment to their vision, leaders inspire others to adopt a similar perspective, fostering a culture of sustained growth and achievement. Thus, sacrificing short-term benefits in pursuit of long-term gains exemplifies the hallmark of visionary leadership.
2.4.12. Taking Responsibility and Sharing Success: Outstanding leaders possess the rare ability to shoulder the burdens of failure while generously attributing success to their team members. By willingly accepting accountability for the shortcomings of their team, they demonstrate humility and authenticity, garnering profound respect and unwavering loyalty from those they lead. This selfless approach fosters a culture of collaboration and empowerment, where individuals feel valued and motivated to excel. Moreover, by acknowledging their own limitations and crediting others for achievements, these leaders cultivate a sense of unity and camaraderie within the team, propelling everyone towards shared goals and collective triumphs. In essence, the practice of taking responsibility and sharing success epitomizes the essence of exceptional leadership, inspiring greatness and fostering enduring bonds of trust and mutual respect.
By integrating these guiding principles into their conduct and decisions, individuals can elevate their leadership prowess and emerge as impactful leaders within professional environments. By embodying qualities such as integrity, empathy, and vision, they can inspire trust, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful change. Through consistent practice and a commitment to personal growth, aspiring leaders can cultivate the skills and attributes necessary to navigate challenges, motivate teams, and achieve collective success. Embracing these principles not only enhances one's leadership effectiveness but also contributes to the cultivation of a positive and thriving organizational culture where innovation, resilience, and excellence flourish. Ultimately, by embracing these principles, individuals can empower themselves and others to reach new heights of achievement and fulfillment in their professional endeavors.
2.5. Control Adverse Emotion: Managing negative emotions is crucial for creating a harmonious work environment and achieving personal success. As highlighted by renowned Chinese entrepreneur Jack Ma, individuals with high emotional intelligence (EQ) have an advantage over those with only high intellectual intelligence (IQ). This emphasizes the significance of controlling negative emotions to attain career success. Moreover, it is important to note that negative emotions not only impact our psychological well-being but also have adverse effects on our physical health, which will be explored in further detail later in this section. By mastering the skill of emotional regulation, individuals can propel themselves to the pinnacle of their careers while also safeguarding their overall well-being.
By incorporating strategies to control adverse emotions, individuals can create a more positive and productive work life. Emotions such as anger, frustration, and anxiety can hinder communication, decision-making, and teamwork. Therefore, learning to manage these emotions is essential for fostering healthy professional relationships and achieving desired outcomes.
To be continued....
First Phase: (Introduction) https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/increase-level-living-happiness-first-phase-md-asaduzzaman
Second Phase: (Health and Fitness)
Third Phase: (Work efficiency and Communication Skill)
Fourth Phase: (Managerial and Leadership Skill)
Fifth Phase: (Family and Friends)