What's Your Management Style?

If you've been working in an office as long as I have, you know the differences in management styles. Whether you rule with an iron fist or with positive reinforcement, managing others is vital to workflow and productivity. What style are you?

The Friend

You know the friendly boss. You've taken advantage of his/her kindness and reaped the benefits of having someone manage you that cares about your friendship first. While these people are extremely kind hearted and loyal friends, they aren't the best bosses. This kind of boss is likely to have favorites too. While they're so occupied with being your friend, they filter out all objectivity. When it comes to effectively managing personnel, instilling a slight sense of fear within your subordinates is not a terrible idea. They will ultimately respect your authority. When your workers know that there are consequences to their actions, they will be less likely to stretch the rules.

The Dictator

This boss is the worst boss to work for. Not only do they walk around with a giant chip on their shoulder, everyone around them walks on eggshells as to not make it their last day at work. Things must be done their way, in the length of time designated. No fooling around or chatting it up at the water cooler. No office parties, no luncheons, its work, work, work.

These dictating managers rarely realize they are a total sticks in the mud and continue their tirade until someone brings them down a notch. You are NOT the person to do so. Never correct your manager, especially one like this. If they are completely unbearable, you can consider going to their superior if you feel they are likely to listen without repercussions. However, the safer method is karma.

The Micromanager

This manager is attached to you and your computer screen. Chances are you haven't done anything right ever. Once you've completed a project, it's likely sent back to you for reasons of knit picking rather than real significant corrections. This manager will drive you up the wall, possibly even worse than the dictator. At least the dictator leaves you alone to do your work!

The micromanager is seen as unorganized and frazzled. Probably because they are so busy being in everybody else's business. They are often frustrated simply because they never have enough time for themselves. They think the entire office thrives on their direction and would likely fall apart without it. While these people can be very likeable, their managerial style typically is not.

The Balance

The ideal manager would be a beautiful balance of all of these characteristics. Someone who knows how to deal with unproductive workers' but can still play a friendly role. Someone who trusts you to get the job done without hovering over your shoulder. A boss that doesn't bark orders or seem completely dissatisfied with the office, or more importantly, their life. Who knows if this person exists?

Different people respond to different tactics and although the interview process is designed to explore the connection between boss and employee, first impressions are often misleading. While it's important to be able to play well with others, some people just aren't meant to lead. Is your boss a tyrant or your friend? How about you? Which role do you play? Share your stories.