4 Essential Hiring Manager Traits

While some management skills can be learned, it also takes a specific personality type to excel as a leader. The following traits are hallmarks of a great hiring manager:

• You’re empathetic: A strong hiring manager is able to understand what their employees are going through. People want to work for someone who truly cares about them, so showing empathy is a must.
• But not a pushover: However, a hiring manager who is too empathetic can let employees get away with slacking off at the office. Yes, it’s unfortunate when a staff member is dealing with personal problems or other concerns. However, you still need to hold them accountable, just as you would any other employee.
• You know when you’re wrong: A person with a “my way or the highway” approach can become very polarizing in the office. A good manager takes a firm stand, but is also able to admit when they’ve made a mistake. No one is perfect, regardless of what kind of position of power you’re in.
• You’re passionate about your organization: Managers often put in long hours at the office, much more so than their employees. If you don’t truly love what you’re doing, this will quickly become tiresome. If you want to excel in a leadership role, you should really love what you do and believe in why you do it.

Truly great managers never stop learning. Just because you’ve gotten into a leadership position, doesn’t mean you know everything there is to know about your company and your industry. Continue to develop your skills and learn about new trends in order to stay relevant within your field.