Top 10 Ways to Be a Good Boss
It’s more common to hear horror stories of bosses than to hear how much someone loves working for their employer. Being a good boss is beset with challenges from both sides –
our inherent strengths and weaknesses, and projected issues with authority from employees. There is a path toward becoming not just a good boss, but a great leader who people want to follow, and it leads to solid benefits for you and your team.
[two_third_last]
To get the most out of your employees and be a fair, effective boss, try to incorporate these tips into your daily management practices:
- Give employees effective direction.
When your team succeeds, you succeed. But all that success doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Your employees need clear instructions and objectives in order to meet expectations. Never assume they know what you want from them, but once you have outlined the action needed, make sure to… - Give them your trust.
No one appreciates being micro-managed – it displays disrespect. If your people have the training, tools, and road map they need, let them get the job done their way. If your employees don’t feel empowered to make their own decisions, it slows productivity. Realize that giving them your trust means they’ll make mistakes, so you’ll have to… - If your employees aren’t making mistakes, they’re not growing in their jobs, and stagnancy isn’t good for them or your company. Deal directly with the core issue, correct faulty thinking or behavior, and then move on. How you conduct yourself when dealing with problems will be a large part of how you…
- Set a good example.
Employees look to their bosses for cues on what is acceptable behavior in the workplace. Don’t think the way you do your job and how you treat other people isn’t noticed. Actions speak louder than words, and they are an effective strategy when you want to… - Communicate clearly.
Your team should understand how their work fits into the big picture of your company’s success. When working on a project, conduct efficient meetings and give each team member frequent, positive interaction. Communication, however, is more than the words you speak; listen well and clarify, and you’ll be on primed to… - Motivate your employees.
When you listen to your employees, you’ll learn their passions and strengths. Align assignments as much as possible to their interests and give them opportunities to stretch their skill set, and you’ll be stimulating their best work for you. Sometimes motivating employees may mean that you… - Give them ongoing training.
Employees who receive personal interest from their bosses regarding their growth know they have a partner who is willing to invest in their future. Continued education in the workplace enables them to expand their expertise, as long as the training is relevant to their job. Providing these opportunities is a strong component to… - Create a healthy environment.
Study after study shows that employees in a positive work culture are more productive. Employers who foster chances for teambuilding and leaders who provide neutral ground for effective mediation will see their efforts pay off in a less tense and more upbeat workplace. You can add to this by ensuring that you… - Give them balance.
There are times when your team will be under a lot of pressure, and times when they feel they can relax a bit more. While you should always set high expectations, realize that people need release valves for tension. Let them see your lighter side, just don’t get too chummy. Always be a resource for your team to tap into, and use their hard work to… - Recognize their efforts and accomplishments.
Be consistent in giving recognition when it’s earned, but tailor the accolades to the employee and the achievement as much as possible. This includes letting others—both inside and outside your department—know what your team member has done. Ongoing praise keeps everyone encouraged.
Being a good boss is more than just having your team get the job done; it’s leading your team with inspiration and appreciation. If you focuses on genuine leadership rather than routine management, you’ll become that rare good boss employees enjoy working for. For more tips on getting your employee’s best efforts, contact PsychPros.[/two_third_last]