Business managers must have excellent communication skills. They need to communicate with all levels of people in an organization from hourly employees to the company CEO. Business managers must be able to provide clear instructions to subordinates on how to perform a specific task. In the same day, the business manager might need to discuss more technical issues with company engineers. Business management professionals must also be adept at communicating with outside vendors. For example, a marketing research manager will need to educate an agency on the company's products before the agency conducts customer surveys.

Business management requirements also include organizational skills. Business managers are usually assigned multiple projects. They need to know how to prioritize various tasks, assign them to specific individuals, assign a time frame for the tasks, and complete the project on or before the deadline. For example, a human resources manager may need to evaluate dozens of different health insurance programs, before finally selecting one and scheduling a meeting with employees. The human resources manager may share the task with her assistant, then have a secretary set up appointments with the health benefit companies that are invited to present their programs.

Business managers must be highly analytical. For example, a business manager may need to determine why production or labour costs are higher than expected. The manager may need to study the production process and make recommendations on how to eliminate waste. Additionally, the manager may determine that employee overtime is driving up labour costs. Business managers must constantly analyse problems and solve them.

Although certification is voluntary, some upper-level management positions may prefer candidates who hold certification. The Association of Professionals in Business Management offers two levels of certification for business managers with varying levels of education and experience. The Certified Associate Business Manager credential is available to entry-level professionals and validates knowledge of basic business management principles. The Certified Business Manager credential is intended for advanced-level business managers who have a master's degree, eight years of experience, or a bachelor's degree coupled with four years of experience. Both of these certifications also require continuing education and a fee to gain recertification.

You may also increase your chances of employment and advancement by earning a master's degree in business administration or another closely related field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, administrative service managers with a master's degree may benefit from greater job opportunities and promotion to upper-level positions