How do I become a more effective manager?

Question

I've recently been promoted to manager at a restaurant. I want to know how I can be an effective manager?

IE: how can I get the employees to do as I ask w/o me sounding bossy or bitchy, esp. because I'm friends with most of them?

There are alot of new things happening at this restaurant and I was promoted to help change how the servers are working, but I can't see to do it w/o feeling like I'm a nag. Any ideas?

Answer 1

First of all, I think you probably already know a bit about managing, because you have been given the job!

There is a fine line between being a friend and being that friend's manager. You can do it-just be fair. Treat them as you would treat anyone else. Don't play favorites. Your 'friends' might ask you for certain days off, or other special treatment. I would suggest you keep away from that as much as possible. If the others catch wind of it, you may have a mutiny on your hands!

You might want to hold a meeting where you can remind everyone what their job is, and the duties that they are to do for each shift. You also need to let them know that while you are at work, you are a manager, not a friend. (But you certainly can be a friendly manager!)

I believe you can still be friendly and be an effective manager. You can still hang out, but when it comes to work, it should be fun, but MOSTLY professional.