360 Magazine has just finalized the winners of its Most Favorite Manager survey. This year we decided to focus the spotlight on middle-level managers, as it is they who are the ultimate face of a company. It is this rung of management that knows what are the problems unique to, say, the partners of Guntur as against those faced by partners in Bilaspur.
p____p With this decision, 360 Magazine has added more depth to its Most Favorite Manager survey. The survey, which was started last year, is an attempt to highlight the contribution of regional sales offices, channel managers and product managers in building a company’s brand image. For, no matter how user-friendly or tech-savvy a product is, its ultimate success in the market is a result of the attention and zeal the manager gives it.
p____p The list of winners is an interesting mix of managers from across the country representing all sizes of companies. In this instance, size does not matter. There were managers from regional distribution companies who were running neck to neck with managers from big MNCs. Most of the managers who ended up on the final list had one trait in common they were actively involved in developing growth opportunities for the partner. To channel partners, it’s criteria like helping partners tap new business, understanding the product road map and providing solutions to problems that matter.
p____p The survey revealed thst the channel wants managers who will help it grow. It told us that the channel community is not looking for icons, but managers who will bring the business philosophy of their company to life.
p____p Management tactics too need to change from top-down approach to a more face-to-face interaction. For the channel to evolve further, channel partners and management teams should meet each other half-way. This will not only cement longer-lasting relationships in the channel, but will also set the foundation for a healthier business environment for friends don’t cheat each other.