How should a manager exhibit their demeanor during problem-solving activities?

A manager's demeanor during problem-solving activities is crucial to fostering a productive and collaborative environment. Being more assertive and mentoring reflects a proactive approach to management that encourages team engagement and empowers team members to contribute to solutions.

When a manager takes on a mentoring role, they guide their team through the problem-solving process. This not only helps build individual capabilities but also strengthens the overall team dynamic. Assertiveness allows managers to express their ideas and perspectives clearly and confidently, which can steer discussions in a constructive direction and promote deeper thinking among team members. This demeanor helps in encouraging open communication, where team members feel valued and are thus more likely to contribute actively.

In contrast, adopting a passive and non-intrusive demeanor may lead to missed opportunities for input and collaboration, while avoiding confrontation can result in unresolved issues festering rather than being addressed. Prioritizing personal opinions over the contributions of others can undermine team cohesion and discourage participation. Therefore, mentoring and assertiveness create an environment where problem-solving can thrive, leading to better outcomes and a more involved team.