Hands on with a light touch
The term "Manager" is problematic, in that one manages systems, yet one must LEAD people.
One can be a "Hands-on" manager if one is a little adept at being a leader. The leaders hands are usually on the shoulder, patting someone on the back for excellent work (done in front of everyone else).
If a slap of correction needs to be done for a poorly performing subordinate, it is delivered lightly and in absolute privacy. The leader always emphasizes the good points prior to, and after pointing out the bad - thereby re-enforcing the good over the bad.
The hands that are on the subordinates, must be hands of caring and support. Those hands must be attached to a leader who cares about the welfare and good spirits of everyone he or she works with.
That "Hands-on" manager (Leader) must realize that when there is any anxiety or anger within him or herself, it is time to become a hands-off manager, until his or her own good spirit returns and a supportive, caring touch can be given, once again.
The "Hands-on" manager must be a Leader, who leads by example, and if that leader comes from a different background (Business as opposed to IT, or IS), the true leader will engage in an intense personal study program to ensure that he or she can be somewhat empathetic to the concerns of those they are called upon to lead.
Managing the systems is easy. Leading the people take panache!
