I've been working for the same restaurant for over 11 years now.

I've seen a lot of different managers come and go.

Each manager seems to have a different management style.

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Some are very strict, always barking out orders.

Some are very lenient,   seeming to want nothing more than to be your friend.

I've probably seen at least 50 different managers in my time at this restaurant.

For the most part,  I would advise any potential managers that balance is the most important thing.

You have to be strict when the situation calls for it.

If there's a lot of work to be done,   but everyone is just sitting around,  then as the manager it's your responsibility to stand up and make sure your employees are working.

Lead by example.

However, if there is nothing to do because people have been working really hard,   and they've already got everything done......then it's a good idea to allow your staff to relax a bit.

Nobody likes a harsh taskmaster.

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This is where respect enters the equation.

If you're working your employees really hard,  then you should be working really hard as well.

If you expect your staff to go that extra mile,  then you need to put in just as much effort as they do..... if not more.

On the other hand, if it's time to relax then it's a good idea to make sure you're on the same level as your employees.

You're not above them.

You might hold a higher position at your establishment, but that doesn't mean that you hold a higher position in the grand scheme of things. 

We are all equal.

 I've seen a lot of different managers in my time.

 I've seen managers that treat their employees like crap.

I've also seen managers that treat their employees like actual friends. Sometimes that can be a good thing and sometimes that can be a bad thing.

One thing is for sure though....

You have to give respect in order to get respect.

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