We’ve all had bad bosses in the past. Those who are rude and belittle their employees, or those who have to micromanage every little task. But on the other end of the spectrum, everyone can remember a great boss too. Someone who manages their team well, earning respect and giving it back to their staff in equal measure. A boss you feel comfortable talking to, and doesn’t make you dread going into the office.
If you are on the other side of the table, finding yourself managing a team of employees, you want to be in the second category. As a boss, you need to get the best out of your team, not only striving for the best results, but ensuring they are as happy and healthy as can be.
There is no one right way to be a boss. It all depends on your individual leadership style, the people you are managing, and the type of organization you run. But there are certain character traits that provide a common thread between all good managers. Here are four attributes all the best bosses must have.
Good Communication
Being able to communicate well is not just about giving information. It’s also about listening too. A great boss can articulate instructions clearly, so that their entire team knows exactly what is expected of them. But they should also listen to feedback and consider everyone’s ideas and opinions. Don’t be rigid in your approach. Be flexible enough to embrace good ideas and change your plans accordingly. You want your staff to feel comfortable talking to you.
Curiosity
To be in a position of power in business requires knowledge. That is, knowledge of your industry, market trends, modern technology, and more. But as any good boss knows, learning never stops. The worst leaders are those who are stuck in their ways and refuse to embrace change. But the world is constantly changing, and we must all move with it. Make an effort to be continually feeding your mind, consuming news, reading books, and learning from other industry professionals. Whether it’s researching the latest social media trends, sales CRM insights, or the technologies that are shaping the business world, knowledge can empower you to lead your team into the future.
Delegation
When a boss micromanages, no one wins. The watched employee will feel stressed and less productive as a result, and the boss wastes their own time that could be better spent on other areas of the business. An effective manager hires the best people for the task, and trusts them to get on with it. Delegation is important, as it makes people feel empowered, and they are happier and more productive as a result.
Ethics
Although any successful business owner wants to make money, it should not come at the cost of sacrificing one’s ethics. Many organizations pride themselves on their corporate social responsibility, forging initiatives to protect the environment, promote human rights, and treat their employees fairly. Set a good example for your employees, and show them that business is about more than just profit margins.
