Leadership and Management: Growing Your Role and Maximising Impact as an Office Manager

Stepping into the role of an office manager is both an exciting and challenging journey. As someone looking to either transition into this role or enhance your current position, understanding the nuances of leadership and management is crucial, especially as in most roles centred around office and workplace management, there are usually leadership duties even if they aren’t always obvious! And very typically, at some point you are given direct reports e.g. with receptionists, assistants or junior office management staff.

So, with all of that in mind in my latest blog, let’s explore what makes a great leader, the different management styles, and how to maximise your impact in the office environment.

Understanding Leadership vs. Management

Firstly, it’s important to distinguish between a leader and a manager. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they embody different concepts:

– Management focuses on planning, organising, and coordinating resources to achieve specific goals. Managers ensure tasks are completed efficiently and on time. These include strategies such as:

• determining a business’s objectives, visions, goals or missions

• putting in place the timeline for achieving both the long- and short-term objectives

• establishing the resources for achieving the set objectives

• providing the organisation and those in its employment with a clear sense of direction

– Leadership involves inspiring and motivating a team to achieve a shared vision. Leaders focus on influencing and guiding people towards a common goal. IT includes examples such as :

• challenging processes

• inspiring and sharing a vision

• enabling others to act, showing the way and creating space for collaboration and visibility

• modelling the way – leading by example, going first and living the behaviours you want others to adopt

• recognition is really key, seeking those out and recognising individuals and teams celebrating accomplishments

A successful office manager often needs to wear both hats, balancing the pragmatic aspects of management with the inspirational elements of leadership, although most say that you can only either be a manager or a leader as it’s difficult to be both, I think office managers often do both or need to!

There are a number of key positive management styles which have the best impact and can suit various people and their management preferences which are…

1. Coaching – this is the one I tend to go into when managing so I love this style!

   – Benefits: This style focuses on personal development and growth. A coaching manager encourages team members to develop their skills and achieve their potential, fostering a learning environment.

   – Challenges: It requires patience and time, as you’ll be investing in the long-term development of your team.

Bozoma Saint John who was the CMO at Netflix used this management style.

2. Transformative:

   – Benefits: Transformative leaders inspire and motivate employees by creating a shared vision. This style can lead to high levels of engagement and innovation.

   – Challenges: It demands a strong vision and the ability to communicate it effectively, which can be challenging in rapidly changing environments.

The leaders of HubSpot, Brian Halligan and Dharmesh Shah are this management style which really supports the industry they are in.

3. Visionary:

   – Benefits: Visionary managers focus on setting a clear direction and inspiring others to follow. They are excellent at driving change and fostering a sense of purpose.

   – Challenges: It requires constant communication and the ability to maintain enthusiasm among the team.

The best example I can find is Elon Musk, despite his controversy he is a visionary leader, and I guess it’s worked for him so far!

4. Democratic:

   – Benefits: This style involves team members in decision-making processes, which can lead to higher satisfaction and a sense of ownership.

   – Challenges: Decision-making can be slower as it involves gathering input from various sources.

And finally, Judy Vrendenburgh is the best example of this management style who is now retired but she ran Girls Incorporated for a number of years, successfully in this style.

 

There are of course management styles to avoid as well, these are…

1. Transactional:

   – This style is focused solely on the exchange of services for rewards or penalties. While it can be effective for short-term tasks, it can stifle creativity and long-term motivation.

2. Micromanaging:

   – Excessive control and monitoring can lead to decreased morale and autonomy. Employees often feel undervalued and stressed, which can negatively impact productivity.

How can you grow as a manager and / or leader?

1. Develop Emotional Intelligence:

   – Being aware of your own emotions and those of others is crucial. Emotional intelligence helps in building strong relationships, resolving conflicts, and leading with empathy.

2. Invest in Continuous Learning:

   – Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and best practices in office management. Attend workshops, read relevant literature, and engage in professional development opportunities.

3. Cultivate a Positive Work Environment:

   – Create an atmosphere where employees feel valued and appreciated. Recognise achievements, celebrate milestones, and maintain open lines of communication.

4. Set Clear Goals and Expectations:

   – Ensure that your team knows what is expected of them. Clear goals and transparent communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is aligned with the organisational objectives.

5. Empower Your Team:

   – Trust your team members to take ownership of their tasks. Provide the necessary resources and support, but allow them the autonomy to make decisions and learn from their experiences.

6. Be Adaptable:

   – The office environment is constantly evolving. Be prepared to adapt your management style to meet the changing needs of your team and organisation.

Being an effective office manager, manager and leader requires a blend of skills, including strategic planning, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire and motivate your team. By understanding and applying different management styles, you can maximise your impact and create a thriving, productive work environment.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to enhance your leadership skills, remember that the journey is continuous. Embrace the challenges and opportunities, and strive to be a leader who not only manages but also inspires.

Feel free to connect with me for more insights on developing your leadership and management skills. Together, we can create workspaces that are not only efficient and compliant but also inspiring and dynamic.

Hana, The OMG