In any workplace there are multiple personality types which must get along and learn to work together. When in a management position, it is important to recognize these different personality types, in order to be efficient. The Daft textbook states that the, "first requirement for being a good manger is understanding oneself" (Daft, 2014 p. 454). I find this to be such a simple concept, yet so many of us do not fully understand, or analyze our own personality characteristics. In our previous Kaplan course, we took surveys that gave me a deeper understanding of how I deal with situations, and how I should approach others who have different styles of approaching things. Although it seems like common sense, or that our way is the best way, this was both a very valuable tool, and a lesson for me. I cannot change the way people think, or what they think it the best, but I can learn ways to approach people in a more understanding way, and be a better listener to those who have a different way of wanting to get something done. I cannot stand to be micromanaged, and want to make sure that I am never "that person" in the workplace.
The textbook states that self-awareness is the number one most important things for a leader to posses (Daft, 2014 p.454). I can see how understanding yourself is important because you can recognize differences in personality traits, emotions, and other factors when dealing with employees from a management position. When one is self aware, it may be easier to take a step back and evaluate the best way to deal with varying attitudes, emotions and personality traits that can cause conflict in the workplace. When the organization's goals are put ahead of individual goals, employees and management can work together to dissolve issues that arise. The approach of who is right, and who is wrong, can be refocused and directed towards, how the organizational goals will be met.
By being able to maintain a peaceful workplace where employees feel that management cares, a manager is able to lead their employees, and help influence their attitude towards getting the job done.
Reference
Daft, R. L. (2014). Management(11th ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western, Cengage Learning