Whether you are a quality manager in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, or mass consumer goods, every expert wants to develop their skills and be successful at their job.
But what distinguishes a good quality manager from an outstanding one? And what tools do you need to develop yourself as a quality assurance (QA) specialist, quality manager, or expert in the field of validation? This blog contains a list of skills every excellent quality manager should have.
Characteristics of a good quality manager
In the QA sector, there is a great deal of emphasis placed on individuals having outstanding communication and other general skills. This implies that there has been a lack of communicative and linguistic skills missing from quality managers lately.
But what are the top skills needed to be the best quality manager?
We've compiled a list of the most critical skills QA hiring managers are looking for in an employee. These points come from our own experience with applicants in QA and consultations with QA hiring managers.
1. You express yourself verbally and in writing clearly and concisely
The best quality managers can communicate perfectly. They are always present and know how to express themselves to different audiences – from the employee to the managing director. As a quality manager, you are often the company's primary point of contact and thus act as an advisory partner in a wide range of areas. Therefore, improving your social skills and keeping an ear open to help others will help you immensely throughout your career.
As a quality manager, it's critical that you can communicate instructions, requirements, and expectations clearly and concisely. The industry uses a unique language, and you will be required to continuously adapt linguistically to these trends. Always work to improve and expand your communication skills regularly.
2. Be organized
Quality managers conduct regular audits, so it is vital to stay organized when implementing structured processes. Management methods such as Lean Six Sigma help you control processes. Of course, you can apply other principles to increase your productivity. Just remember to keep updating and improving your processes over time.
3. Nothing escapes your critical eye
I pay attention to every little detail!
You've probably have said this phrase many times – and not without reason. Laser-focused attention is an essential component for a quality manager. It is also a matter of personality, but targeted exercises, like active listening, taking notes, or even triple-checking your work, can strengthen your observational skills.
4. You are an analyst and are objective
Small mistakes can sometimes have serious consequences. As a quality manager, you need to be able to weigh the consequences of your decisions. Based on your education and experience, you know precisely what needs to be done, so take your time and analyze everything with a critical eye before it's officially signed off.
5. You love the research and are well versed on up to date guidelines
An essential part of any good quality manager would be constantly researching and staying up to date with recent quality assurance developments.
Google plays such an essential role in research today. However, make sure you are looking at creditable sources when conducting research. Proper research, analysis, and application of information are a high priority in the industry.
Tip! Create a library of quality assurance materials (books, videos, podcasts, episodes, etc.) to use as references throughout your career.
6. They make a difference at an organization
As a quality manager, you don't just monitor the manufacturing process; you drive results essential for developing a product or service. Your role is the key to the change process. Make sure to show your results to your employer or customer using robust facts and figures. This is a great way to show the impact your position has on the organization.
Considerations every QA expert should make
You don't just become the best quality manager; it takes time to develop your skills. Consider having conversations with your leaders, team members, and peers regularly to get feedback to stay on top of your game. What are you doing well? Where are there areas of improvement? What skills do you need to develop to be the best quality manager you can be?
Are you looking to start or further your career in the field of quality management? Our recruiting team at Real Staffing can help.
You can view available quality manager positions here.
To speak with a recruiter, " target="_blank">contact us for more information.