Self-improvement can be costly and time consuming. As an office manager, however, becoming more effective can make your job easier and more valuable in the eyes of management.

Office managers are expert multitaskers. If you're doing more than four things at once, that's probably still not enough. Your knowledge of the office is incomparable — you know exactly whom to call and when. Plus, you have a sixth sense about office crises. In other words, you're practically indispensable. What's your secret? You're organized, understanding (to a point), a good communicator, and can always see the big picture. Still, like any key employee, office managers are often looking for ways to become more effective. Here are a few key tips:

Hone Your Oral Communication Skills
Knowing how to talk to people is paramount for office managers. In many cases, you're the go-to person, so your ability to listen well is critical. You're also the one responsible for making sure things get done. Knowing how to ask questions and obtain clarification will also help you to become more effective. For example, if you don't understand how an assignment is to be completed, seek clarification. You don't necessarily have to admit that you don't understand something; simply ask for clarification. Likewise, if you're discovering that people don't understand your instructions, ask yourself if you need to be clearer in your communication. For some helpful tips on becoming a better communicator with your colleagues, read Ten Ways to Improve Your Interpersonal Skills.