Knowledge, skills and abilities are all necessary components for any job position. When placed in a manager’s role, essential attributes become critical to success. Although the articles read deal with management of Critical Care Retirement communities (CCRC), the information is applicable to any organization. Key leadership skills include: organizational skills, business knowledge, communication skills and interpersonal skills. Interaction with employees and customers, conflict resolution and negotiation skills are included in interpersonal skill sets. Organizational skills include time management, decision-making, leadership, training and delegation (Sweem & Stowe, 2011, p. 77). Managers must be able to understand the basics of business like budgeting, financial management and strategic planning. Communication skills are essential to passing on the vision of the organization and the necessary knowledge needed to enable growth. Sweem & Stowe (2012) state “leaders may have respect through achieving financial objectives but it is the interpersonal skills that cause a leader to fail” (p. 34). Without effective communication, goals will not be met and the company will suffer chaos.
These articles contend that many organizations look for the individual skills that managers need in order to be successful. They should instead look at the broader picture, seeking a “core group” of abilities and knowledge, enabling strength in leadership and allowing a candidate to draw from their expertise (Sweem & Stowe, 2012, p. 32). Seeking candidates displaying a wide array of attributes will enable growth. Developing effective managerial skills within an organization takes mentoring, training and practice. Hiring individuals with distinct skill sets is a beginning. Communicating effectively with new managers to bring them into the vision of the organization will ultimately enable