Being a manager is a unique position that requires a specific set of skills and a certain level of responsibility. It's not just about telling people what to do or being in charge; it's about guiding and supporting a team to achieve its goals. Recently, a Reddit user named TheKayin started a thread asking managers to share what it's like being a manager. Several managers responded, offering their insights into the role. Here are some of the key points that they made:

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Being a Manager is Like Being a Kindergarten Teacher or Babysitter

According to some of the commenters, being a manager is similar to being a kindergarten teacher or professional babysitter. This analogy highlights the importance of having patience, communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple personalities and skill sets. Additionally, managers must be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each team member to make sure they're being utilized effectively.

Being a Manager is Like Being a Goal-Tender on a Hockey Team

One commenter compared being a manager to being the goal-tender on a hockey team without a backup goalie. They stated that while managers may not get recognition for the majority of the right calls they make, all eyes are on them for every single mistake they make. This analogy emphasizes the importance of making sure that every decision a manager makes is thought through and has the best interests of the team at heart.

Managers are the Hidden Glue That Holds Operations Together

Another comparison that some of the commenters made was that being a manager is like being the hidden glue that holds operations together. While they might not get the recognition they deserve for their work, they are the backbone of the team and are responsible for keeping everything running smoothly. Managers need to be able to anticipate problems before they happen, delegate tasks effectively, and keep everyone motivated.

Being a Manager can be Rewarding but Stressful

While being a manager can be rewarding, it can also be very stressful and lonely at times. One commenter stated that managers often have to deal with difficult situations and make tough decisions. However, when everything goes well, being a manager can be incredibly fulfilling.

Managers and Leaders are Different

Finally, one commenter made the distinction between managers and leaders. Leaders have followers while managers manage to get things done. While both roles are important, managers need to focus on preparing their team for the world so that they can navigate it successfully on their own. This requires a balance of delegation and support, as well as a deep understanding of each team member's strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

Being a manager is a complex role that requires a range of skills and a strong sense of responsibility. The comparisons and insights offered by the Reddit commenters highlight the importance of patience, communication, delegation, and the ability to motivate a team. By focusing on these key skills and traits, managers can help their teams achieve success and reach their full potential.