How do I be a good manager?

Question

I am the manager of a small Starbucks and manage about 8 girls. They are all about my age (23). I feel like the best way to get along is by being friends with them, but then it's really hard to reprimand or counsel one of them when the time to do so comes. I feel like I need to step up a little and be more of a manager than a friend. How do I make that transition and not be hated? What managing style is best in this situation? I am actually really close with my assistant. Is that a bad situation to the rest of my team?

Answer 1

You're not going to learn it all here on YA. Basically you have to understand the needs of your workers, make sure they have everything they need to do their job.

Answer 2

just be a boss and not a b****.

Answer 3

You must explain that business is business and has nothing to do with friendship. There are times when you can be friendly but when work needs to be done you will be the delegator. Visit your local book store and you will find many excellent books. The 10 minute mgr for example.

Answer 4

I wouldnt worry about it, Starbucks isnt going to be around much longer. Theyve already closed 600 stores last month, and with this horrible economy, I just dont see people flocking to spend $5 on a less than stellar cup of java.

    Id fire half the staff, work longer hours and reap the rewards of lowering overhead and the exrtra personal income. Executives love lowering overhead.  

Answer 5

Ultimately the buck stops with you. how well those girls work (or don't) is a direct reflection on you. Hang with friends after work, get the job done with your employees at work. You don't have to be harsh but, make the boundaries clear.