The role of front line Managers is changing. Much more responsibility is being devolved to Managers these days and they are facing a range of issues to deal with. Not only are Managers having to deal with their employees and any issues surrounding their day to day work, performance and concerns, but they are also expected to now get involved in other aspects of employment.
This may include the following:
- Recruitment and selection
- Attendance Management
- Employment Law
- Employee Relations
- Performance Management
- Learning and Development
- Pay and Reward
And on top of all this, Managers are also expected to know each individual employees roles and responsibilities inside out. And in a busy operational office environment, this can be a difficult task.
Manager's are also expected to bring to life many of the policies and procedures Senior Management or Human Resources have put into place. This may include following various procedures with their employees in relation to sickness, performance management or recruitment and selection. It may also include implementing some of the policies that relate to employees. This may include employee engagement initiatives, volunteering schemes, health and well being projects and others.
In addition to this, Managers need to ensure that they have a good working relationship with their employees. This is extremely important to ensure there is a positive working environment and positive working relationships. Managers have a lot to deal with on a daily basis and therefore everything possible should be done to avoid any issues arising and creating more work and a pressurised working environment.
Because of all the above, Managers are expected to have various skills and traits that enable them to cope with their roles and responsibilities. Learning and development should be given to enhance your Managers knowledge of Employment Law advice and procedures.
Furthermore, Managers should have excellent communication skills. This will allow them to communicate ideas, solutions, suggestions and concerns to both their employees and Senior Management. Front line Managers should also have excellent problem solving skills, customer service skills, people management skills and team building skills.