Page 92 - Becoming a Successful Manager

Perpetuating a Problem-Solving Culture 83

provide employees with the tools and resources required for them
to succeed.

The following are some of the specific attitudes and actions
that successful managers we’ve known encourage in their depart-
ments and companies:

• Be willing to take risks.
• Be helpful to fellow employees.
• Own the problem-solving process (as opposed to blaming
others for causing the problems).
•Be trustworthy.
• Be a conscientious student of your fellow employees and
the people you serve, because everyone has something to
teach.
• Avoid asking questions that place people on the defensive.
• Be sensitive toward others.

Compare toxic cultures with problem-solving cultures and you
will invariably fi nd that the former stifle productivity and growth,

while the latter encourage employees to be the best they can be.
This comparison clearly demonstrates why problem-solving man-
agers are successful.