Effective managers focus on employees by encouraging them to take ownership of their job responsibilities. They lead by example and consistently reinforce company values. To be a good manager, you must stay current on new innovations and technological improvements and provide your employees with the resources they need to accomplish work goals. Strong managers maintain personal integrity while striving to help their employees be the best they can be.

Maintain Consistent Professionalism

Maintain professionalism in all situations. Top-notch managers are reliable, trustworthy and consistent without allowing their emotions to interfere with decision-making. Volatile, unstable managers breed frustrated employees, says former manager and marketing expert Victor Lipman in "Psychology Today." Don't lose your temper; respond rationally; and maintain a level head, even when difficult situations or conflicts arise. Employees thrive in work settings where the leadership is dependable and the work environment is predictable.

Empower Employees

Empower your employees. Don't try to control them with fear or manipulation and strive to promote team-oriented goals. Good managers do everything they can to help their employees succeed, says business consultant Jacob Morgan at Forbes. Strengths include communication, negotiation and trustworthiness, so your employees know that you have their best interests in mind. Consult your employees frequently; provide ongoing feedback; and balance criticism with a heavy supply of positive reinforcement, according to the "Harvard Business Review."

Encourage Accountability

Create a system of accountability with clearly defined expectations. Make sure every employee is carrying his work load, so others don't have to fill in gaps or cover for insufficiencies. Good managers provide thorough training and offer human resources orientations, so employees are well-educated on company policies and job duties before they start working. Provide continuing-education courses and additional training as needed. Address tardiness, laziness, dishonesty and disrespect quickly, and follow up with necessary consequences for unacceptable behavior.

Understand Technology

Stay current on technological improvements and computer advancements in your field or industry. You don't need to be an expert in information technology, but you do need to understand how technology impacts your workplace, streamlines tasks and improves productivity, says Morgan. Keep up on industry-relevant computer and software improvements, and research modern avenues for social networking. The goal is to stay up to date because consumers demand it, and you want to maintain a competitive edge.