Observed Signal · May 11, 2021 · Study · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive

Google Study: 10 Traits of Good Managers

Executive Signal Summary

Google's Project Oxygen began in 2008 to identify what makes managers effective and create a healthier work environment. The initial study identified eight core competencies, which Google integrated into its culture. As work evolves, Google conducted new surveys and identified ten traits that define good management today, with two new traits added as items 9 and 10. The ten traits include acting as a coach, delegating responsibilities, creating an inclusive environment focused on employee well-being, being productive and results-oriented, listening and sharing information, supporting development, having clear goals and visions, being qualified to offer advice, fostering collaboration across teams, and making and standing by decisions. Google then trained managers on this list and measured outcomes, noting improvements in work processes, team performance, and employee satisfaction. The findings align with broader studies on open feedback, fast decision-making, and open cultures, and the framework is presented as a leadership guide for various industries.

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High Confidence

Not industry-shifting; leadership study.

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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding

  • Google's Project Oxygen began in 2008 to identify manager traits for effective leadership.
  • The program expanded from eight core competencies to ten traits.
  • Two new traits (items 9 and 10) were added to the ten-trait framework.
  • Google trained managers on the ten traits and observed improvements in work processes and employee satisfaction.
Primary Source Grounding & Direct Attribution
Direct Origin Attribution
Primary Reporting: OnlineMarketing.de•Published: May 11, 2021
Original Coverage Title: “Google Studie: 10 Eigenschaften von guten Führungskräften - OnlineMarketing.de”

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