Managing effectively is one of those things that everyone thinks looks easy, when in reality it’s an extremely complex set of skills that need to be refined over time. If you’re currently in a management position, you probably realize this frustration already. Managers are constantly tasked with performing a number of different functions and wearing a lot of different hats. It’s a constant, active, even proactive process. Watch this video now to get an in depth understanding of what it really takes to be an effective manager.

When you think to yourself “What does it take to be a great manager?” there are probably a number of skills that come to mind. A great manager needs to be organized, they need to be a good communicator, they need to have the ability to delegate work etc. While those are all important, effective management can ultimately be summed up in one simple formula: ME= (TS+QT+IM)MS

Don’t panic – you don’t need to be a math expert to figure out this formula, you just need to understand the variables!

ME: This is Management Effectiveness, which is ultimately what this formula seeks to measure.

TS: Technical Skill. In short, this is the job-specific knowledge and information required to perform your work. For some jobs, technical skills are very apparent. For instance, we can assume that an accountant is going to have strong quantitative skills. Technical skills aren’t limited to technical jobs though – even the barista at your local coffee-shop has technical skills (how to blend and create a beverage). Technical skills are crucial for credibility – they’re your ticket into the door (though, they don’t guarantee you’ll enjoy the event). Be sure that you’re not overly reliant on just your technical skills, as that often leads to management dysfunction.

QT: Quality of Thinking. This is a measure of how well you take in an process information to ultimately make decisions. Part of one’s thinking ability is hardwired- that’s your IQ, or mental horsepower if you will. The other half of your thinking quality is your ability to think critically, and this involves a number of different skills and abilities. First, you need to be able to define an issue, as well as think through how your current beliefs and assumptions affect the way you frame that issue. Then, you need to distinguish fact from opinion, establish ideas and alternatives, assess and evaluate those options, and ultimately reach a well-formed decision (check out this video which explains the CLEAR Thinking Model in depth). Whereas your IQ is hardwired in, your critical thinking ability is something that you can (and should always strive to) develop and improve.

IM: Interpersonal Mastery. This is all about your ability to relate to others – your interpersonal skills. Are you able to build rapport and establish a connection with others? Can you establish an emotional affinity? How well do you clearly communicate your ideas? Are you empathetic? Are you able to influence people? These questions will help you begin to gauge your interpersonal mastery, which is arguably the most important piece of the Management Effectiveness Equation. Mastery of interpersonal communication will ultimately enable you to communicate your expectations clearly, build trust, reinforce good employee performance, and coach employees to improve their skills.

MS: Mindset. This final variable is outside of the parenthesis of the equation for a reason – it ultimately plays into each of the aforementioned skills.  Our mindset reflects our internal state– the emotions, attitudes, beliefs, and paradigms that we hold that may be hidden beneath the surface. Our mindset directly affects our interactions with others and drives our behaviors, whether we’re consciously aware of it or not. Luckily, you are in full control of your own mindset. You can become aware of your attitude and emotions, and you can take control over them.

The key thing to remember about this entire equation is that none of these variables are fixed sums. You are fully capable of changing and improving on any of the aforementioned skills to ensure that you reach your full management potential. Watch the video now to learn how to think and how to use your skills to be the best manager possible.