The Role of Managers in Organizational Success: Guiding, Deciding, and Thriving Together

To whom do you report? Who is your manager? Is this a common question in IT organizations?

Indeed, in most IT organizations, it is quite common to inquire about one's reporting structure and identify their manager. Almost everyone, apart from the CEO of the organization, has a manager. Even though the CEO holds a significant position on the organizational chart, they ultimately report to the shareholders or investors.

It may seem normal, but from the very first day of your career in an organization, you will have a manager, and the success of your career is often influenced by the relationship with your direct manager. During my early days as a technical engineer, I failed to recognize the true value of having a manager. My perception was that their primary responsibility was merely to review and approve leave requests. Looking back now, I find it amusing to realize how much I underestimated the role of a manager during that time.

Throughout the years, I have continuously asked myself the importance of managers in an organization. Through various experiences, I have had the chance to work under exceptional managers, which has provided me with valuable insights into the reasons why a manager is crucial and why everyone should strive to have a great manager in their career.

Though this topic is vast, I will focus on one key point to keep it concise and manageable.

Why managers are important?

Managers play a vital role in every organization, regardless of its size or scale, be it a small department or the largest global corporation. Their presence is essential to ensure that resources are organized and utilized effectively and efficiently. It's challenging to envision an organization achieving its goals or delivering products and services without the guidance of well-managed resources.

Conversely, when an organization or department fails to meet its objectives or produce the desired results, it often stems from inadequate planning or inefficient management of resources.

How does a manager create a team?

It's essential to remember that the world's best organizations, products, or services are the result of the collective efforts of people. These world-class achievements are made possible by the dedication and hard work of hundreds or even thousands of resources. Consequently, one of the primary responsibilities of a manager is to assemble a cohesive team capable of delivering top-notch services, products, or support.

A crucial aspect of effective management is cultivating strong relationships and ensuring their continuity. It is evident that maximizing employee potential is vital for business success. A manager's role is not just a title; it is an accountability to deliver results through effective resource management. Exceptional managers possess the ability to coach, inspire, and build robust teams.

The impact of managers on individual.

Great managers exhibit patience and skill in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of their team members. They can evaluate each individual's potential and determine their capacity to achieve desired results. I have personally witnessed managers who invest time in reviewing and planning the growth and development of their team members. They have a clear understanding of the skill sets required for their team to meet departmental or organizational goals, and they work closely with each resource to design personalized plans that enhance and develop those skills.

Planning and Leadership

This demands a combination of practical skills and soft skills. In essence, the manager must be adept at meticulous planning while also demonstrating strong leadership abilities. It is crucial for the manager to ensure that their own values are in harmony with the organization's values.

A manager must serve as a powerful advocate, demonstrate the behavior that reflects the organizational culture. They should inspire and encourage every member of their team to embrace the same values and exhibit the desired behaviors that the organization seeks. By leading by example, the manager fosters a cohesive and positive work environment that aligns with the organization's vision and principles.

Conclusion

Indeed, the importance of a manager can be attributed to numerous reasons, and the list could go on indefinitely. The purpose of this brief blog is to highlight the key traits of a manager that prove beneficial to both the team and the organization, regardless of the technology, geographical location, or culture they operate in. These fundamental traits form the backbone of effective leadership, fostering success and growth within any setting.