8 Habits of Highly Effective Managers

These were put together by Google. Some good advice...

1. Be a good coach

• Provide specific, constructive feedback, balancing negative and positive
• Have regular one-on-ones, presenting solutions to problems tailored to the employee's strengths

2. Empower your team and don't micro-manage

• Balance giving freedom to your employees while still being available for advice
• Make "stretch" assignments to help them tackle big problems 

3. Express interest in employees' success and well-being

• Get to know your employees as people, with lives outside of work
• Make new folks feel welcome, help ease the transition 

4. Be productive and results-oriented

• Focus on what you want the team to achieve and how employees can help achieve it
• Help the team prioritize work, and make decisions to remove roadblocks

5. Be a good communicator and listen to your team

• Communication is two-way: Both listen and share
• Hold all-hands meetings and be specific about the team's goals
• Encourage open dialogue and listen to the questions and concerns of your employees

6. Help your employees with career development

7. Have a clear vision and strategy for the team 

• Even amid turmoil, keep the team focused on goals and strategy
• Involve the team in setting and evolving the team's vision, goals, and progress 

8. Have key technical skills, so you can help advise the team

• Roll up sleeves and work side-by-side with team, when needed
• Understand the specific challenges of the work