How to Spot a Good Manager in Africa at Work

How to Spot a Good Manager in Africa at Work

By

How to Spot a Good Manager in Africa at Work

A good manager in Africa may not always wear the title — but they exist, quietly improving the team, solving problems, and leading without applause. These hidden leaders are often overlooked, even though they carry the potential to shape entire departments.

So, how do you spot a good manager in Africa hiding in plain sight?

Here are the telltale signs that someone on your team is already leading — without being asked to.

1. They Influence Without Authority

You’ll often find them guiding junior colleagues, calming workplace tensions, or offering practical solutions during meetings. They don’t need a title to gain respect.

Their influence is earned through consistent action, not position. This quality is vital in African organizations where informal leadership often drives real results.

2. They Take Initiative Without Being Told

They see what needs to be done — and they do it. Whether it’s improving a system, stepping in to assist with a tight deadline, or proposing a better way to do something, they act with ownership.

Unlike others who wait for instructions, this person leans into challenges. Their initiative is a clear indicator of leadership readiness.

Do you have someone on your team who consistently volunteers to help? That’s a good manager in Africa in the making.

3. They Handle Feedback with Maturity

Good managers listen and grow. If someone on your team accepts feedback calmly, reflects on it, and makes noticeable changes — take note. That’s emotional intelligence in action.

In the modern African workplace, adaptability and teachability are far more valuable than rigid competence.

Support your emerging leaders through our Coaching Services, which focus on building resilience and leadership agility.

4. They Think Beyond Their Role

While others focus on completing tasks, hidden leaders often ask bigger questions. They want to know why something is done a certain way or how processes could be improved.

They care about:

  • Long-term impact
  • The client experience
  • The team’s performance

This ability to think systemically is what sets great managers apart.

5. They Empower Others

A good manager doesn’t just lead — they elevate others. Look for individuals who:

  • Celebrate colleagues’ wins
  • Share their skills and knowledge
  • Offer encouragement when morale is low

These people create an atmosphere of psychological safety. They help others feel confident — a key trait of effective leadership.

Want to nurture this talent? Our LeadIn Accelerator program is designed to transform emerging African professionals into strong leaders.

6. They Speak Up — Even When It’s Hard

In many African workplaces, speaking up can be risky. That’s why those who do — respectfully and consistently — show strong leadership potential.

They may ask uncomfortable questions or defend a colleague’s ideas. This courage is not about rebellion. It’s about integrity, vision, and protecting what matters most: the team.

Final Thoughts

A good manager in Africa might already be working quietly on your team, without fanfare. But unless you’re intentional about noticing — and developing — their potential, that leadership will go untapped.

Now is the time to mentor, coach, and elevate them. Because the future of leadership in Africa isn’t waiting — it’s already here, hidden in plain sight.

Related Reads

Book a Discovery Call

Looking to develop hidden leaders within your team? Book a Discovery Call to explore how we can support your leadership pipeline through coaching or training.

Similar Posts