Weak managers are a major cause of employee turnover for many businesses. Because employees spend so much of their workday alongside their superiors, it makes sense that a poorly trained or ineffective manager would cause serious stress for workers. Heed the following signs of a weak manager.
1. Self-Serving
Weak managers are typically very self-centered. They might take credit for work performed by their colleagues but won't hesitate to deflect the blame when problems arise.
2. Abuse Power
A poor manager may abuse their authority in various ways, such as pulling the plug on certain projects or withholding promotions or pay increases. This type of behavior is usually a misguided attempt to garner respect and fear from their subordinates.
3. Fails to Follow His Own Standards
Another common misbehavior of bad bosses is failing to follow through on their own expectations. Managers who set rules for others but don't hold up their own end of the bargain risk alienating their employees and create a breeding ground for mistrust and discontent.
4. Prevents Employee Growth
A bad manager prevents the growth of his employees, whether intentionally or not. A talented employee is likely to lose motivation in an environment where he cannot freely contribute his ideas. Allowing employees to use their own creativity to solve problems and develop solutions leads to a confident and versatile workforce.
5. Micromanages Employees
A micromanager is constantly looking over the shoulders of his employees, ready to nitpick. In addition to being extremely annoying, this behavior sends the message that he doesn't trust his employees, which might cause workers to become stressed or defensive.
6. Takes Advantage of Employees
Bad managers try to extract as much work from their employees as possible, but without offering a corresponding salary increase or promotion. Overworking employees without offering rewards often leads to employee frustration and burnout.
7. Displays Signs of Insecurity
Bad bosses are insecure and may become threatened by stellar employees or highly effective managers. They might try to sabotage another person's success to make themselves feel better or look superior in the eyes of top-level associates.
8. Hypercritical
A bad manager may feel threatened by a star employee and might attempt to shoot down that employee's confidence by constantly criticizing and nitpicking their work.
9. Unappreciative
A bad manager isn't mature enough to express sincere appreciation when it is appropriate. This lack of graciousness can cause employees to lose motivation and become disgruntled.
10. Inflexible
A good manager is able to remain open minded and listen to input from others. A weak manager is rigid and only wants things done a certain way. This can stifle company growth and employee morale.
Managing employees is a learned skill that doesn't come easy. It requires sensitivity and excellent communication ability, in addition to patience and good problem-solving skills. Weak managers can cause problems in the workplace, such as decreased morale among the workforce. It is imperative to recognize the signs of a weak manager and make sure you never develop these traits.
Photo courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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