2011

11 Signs of a Bad Boss

Dianne Shaddock

W W W . E A S Y S M A L L B U S I N E S S H R . C O M

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Have you ever belittled one of your employees in front of other co-

workers? Do you avoid or put off meeting with staff because

you're too busy?

Poor working relationships between managers and staff are a

guaranteed way to decrease morale and productivity, which is why

correcting the situation needs to be a top priority.

The first step in solving the problem is recognizing bad boss

characteristics. Check out this list of the signs of a bad boss based

on feedback from employees:

Inability or disinterest in communicating with staff.

Failure to convey goals, time lines, or expectations

Talking to employees in a rude or condescending manner

Not allowing employees to respond to comments or criticisms

Failure to recognize employee accomplishments or

performance

Inability to deal with constructive feedback from their own

supervisors

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Demonstrates dishonesty

Lacks integrity

Stirs trouble or bad feelings between employees

Takes credit for positive outcomes but quickly blames others

for negative ones

Singles out and discriminates against particular staff members

If you recognize yourself in any of these behaviors, then you've

taken the first step toward adjusting them. The day-to-day

management decisions you make have an immense impact on

workplace interactions. For help developing a management style

that nurtures productivity and fosters collaboration, consider

finding a mentor or learning more about effective supervision

through books or workshops. Be open to constructive criticism.

More importantly, be open to turning your bad traits into positive

management traits. It will not only help you and your career, but

your employees morale and productivity.

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Dianne Shaddock is the Founder of Easy Small Business HR, Employee Hiring and Managing Tips.

Through the Employee Hiring and Managing Tips podcast, blog, and weekly ‘quick tips’ e-newsletters,

Dianne offers expert advice on how to make better hiring decisions, manage difficult employees, develop

employee policies, motivate staff, and so much more. No stuffy, corporate HR policy lingo; but straight

forward, easy to understand and implement advice for businesses just like yours. Stay ahead of the curve

and go to Easy Small Business HR for more tips on how to hire and manage your staff effectively.