Becoming a Better Boss

If you are currently a manager or supervisor at a

company or corporation, there are people who call

you “boss.” It can be easy for this power to go to your

head, but you shouldn’t let it.

Just look at examples in history of when monarchs or

kings have let power go their heads; it has rarely

ended well. It is probably obvious to you that you

won’t abuse your power in such an extreme way.

But there are still ways for you to abuse your power even just as a manager of a regular company. Here

are some tips on how to be a good and fair boss so that you aren’t tempted to abuse your power.

Thank your employees

One of the most important things a boss can do is to say “thank you” often. Saying thank you to your

employees and other co-workers signifies that you appreciate all that they are doing in their jobs.

Thank you means that their job is important in the company and that they are putting forth a good

effort to do well at their job. Saying thank you also creates an atmosphere of gratitude that is very

healthy for a workplace in general.

If you are grateful for what your co-workers do, they will be more inclined to be grateful for what you

do. It’s a two way street.

You are not always right

It is also important to realize that you are not always right. For example, let’s say you are in a meeting

and you are presenting a topic to your co-workers.

Let’s say one of your co-workers brings up an alternative point or a counter-argument. He or she

specifically points out things in your argument that they do not think are very good.

You, as the boss, could react in several different ways. You could choose to get angry at the employee

for calling you out in front of everyone.

You could calmly try to shift the conversation away from the topic, and then get mad at them after the

meeting. Or you could address the issue openly, so that it turns into a discussion rather than a fight.

A good boss would do the latter option, because that is the most ethical thing to do. It is important that

a boss creates an atmosphere where people feel comfortable contributing and voicing their opinions

without fear of being shunned or reprimanded.

Don’t interrupt

Another important thing a boss can

do is to not interrupt. Interrupting is

bad for many reasons.

Interrupting conveys an attitude that

your opinion or statement is more

important than the one being

presented. Even if this is true, it is a

very rude way to introduce your point

of view.

Wait for the other person to finish

talking, and then proceed to bring up your statement. In order to be a good boss, you should also make

sure that your employees are properly trained.

Giving them the proper sexual harassment training will keep the work environment positive and safe.

Sexual harassment training is crucial for a boss who is trying to be the best they can be.

Photo credit: victor 1558