Business Management

What do Business Managers do?

Business managers oversee the day-to-day operations in large and small organizations. In a big company, managers typically oversee an individual department, such as marketing, sales or production. In a smaller company, the business manager might oversee operations in all departments. Office managers oversee the work of clerical or support staff in the business.

Education

Most employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business management to qualify for a position as a business manager. Business managers must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to direct employees and lead the department. Managers are also problem solvers, who work to overcome the obstacles that may prevent a department or company from reaching its goals. Some companies might promote employees with considerable experience from within a department to lead the group. For example, a salesperson with years of experience in the field might advance to a sales manager position.

Duties Continued

The size of the company can determine the type of activities the manager performs. For example, in a larger organization, a production manager might direct team or group leaders, who then oversee the scheduling and output of workers. In a smaller company, the production manager might perform these activities herself. Managers assess the performance of the department or company against the business’s goals and plans.

Some business managers perform human resource activities, such as performance evaluations, hiring and discipline for employees in their department. Performance evaluations provide an opportunity to set goals, motivate and develop workers. Managers motivate workers through incentives and positive feedback. When workers fail to meet the company’s performance requirements, managers provide the evaluation that can help employees improve their work.