Inside the Mind of a Successful Manager [INFOGRAPHIC]

Managers play a crucial role in the work lives of employees. A whopping 65% of Americans would prefer a better boss over a pay raise. Nearly as many say that they would work harder if their relationship with their manager improved, and 1 in 3 are so unhappy that they want to leave their jobs. This points to the importance of successful management techniques in employee-boss relationships. Moreover, these numbers suggest that a successful manager can help reduce employee turnover, which costs the U.S. $11 billion annually.

Of course, like money, successful managers don’t grow on trees. Knowing what employees want from their managers, and how to train managers to deliver, can be difficult. Fortunately, the folks at Pepperdine University have some tips for doing both. Check out their infographic, which discusses management techniques and desired traits in a successful manager.

Trust ranks among the most important qualities in the employee-manager relationship. 1 in 5 employees list it as their top desired trait. Management techniques for creating trust include: listening well, following through on goals, and focusing on inspiring your team. Successful managers also accept change as part of growth, and encourage their employees to do the same.

Employees also want their managers to be fair and patient. 1 in 10 employees say fairness is the most important component of an employee-boss relationship, and 1 in 8 employees say patience is the most important. Fairness and patience can be difficult to gauge, but this infographic gives some great tips for keeping managers on track. Occasional compromise builds trust and gives the impression of fairness. Patient managers also strive for consensus, rather than playing the role of disciplinarian in group discussions.

Finally, employees want guidance from their managers. This may seem like a no-brainer. However, it is important to differentiate between guidance and micro-managing. Guidance involves respect and open communication. Successful managers show respect by listening to their team’s needs, and celebrating their successes. Open communication sometimes involves informing employees of their weaknesses. However, avoid reprimanding and embarrassing employees in front of their peers. Disrespect does NOT rank among the best management techniques.

What management techniques contribute to healthy employee-boss relationships at your workplace? Share your tips in a comment below, or send us a tweet: @sparkhire