Be a Better Boss!

I've written a lot about assistants and office workers in support positions. I've outlined the things they can do to be more effective, more productive, and overall, more successful in their careers. Heck, I've even written a book! The Effective Executive Assistant is a testament to my personal belief that your career belongs to you and no one else. My motto is: whatever you choose to do, take it seriously. Do it to the best of your abilities. Love it, live it, own it. That's the way I roll.

But today, I want to flip the coin. I want to look at bosses - managers, supervisors, anyone who has authority over others. They have a responsibility in all of this as well. They set the tone for the relationship, as well as the office as a whole. Their interactions have an enormous impact on the entire staff. It is not solely the responsibility of the assistant to make the relationship work. This is a two-way street. And (I hate to say it but...) bosses don't always recognize this. They often lose sight of what's important. And who can blame them, right? They're busy! They bring in the clients, close the deals, keep the paychecks coming.

But that doesn't give them a blank check to do and say what they want. They don't get to be obnoxious, rude, insulting, abusive or arrogant just because they're in charge. If that's how they want to be, it's pretty likely they'll end up with high turnover, replacing key employees on a regular basis - which is not cost effective or efficient. Plus, it looks really bad to clients!

And so I write this post today directly to bosses. Please pass it along as you see fit. Maybe drop an anonymous copy on the desk of someone who might benefit from these words. Hopefully somewhere this post will make a difference!

How to Be a Better Boss

Be Nice
You need to recognize that your behavior is a reflection of the entire company. You are truly the creator of the company culture. Every time you interact with someone in the office, consider what you want to express about the company. The best policy is to simply "be nice". Smile, be friendly, and get to know people. No matter how busy you are or how consumed you are by a big project, it just doesn't pay to treat others poorly. Maybe it takes a few minutes but you'll lose a lot more than that if you ignore people or treat them like they're machines. Create strong relationships by being personable and recognizing that the people who work for you are just that - people.

Show Appreciation in Large Doses
There's never an inappropriate time to show gratitude. Do it often and in a big way. No one gets tired of hearing how great they are, especially when those beautiful words of praise are coming from the boss. You have a special ability to make people swoon with just the slightest acknowledgement of a job well done. Take advantage! Make someone's day - everyday. Recognize that you can't accomplish anything alone. Say "thank you" and tell people what their work means to you and the business. Understand, without a doubt, that your success is dependent on the help of the people who support you.

Don't be Afraid to Have Fun and Be HUMAN
You don't have to be all business all the time. People love to see their bosses be human. Let loose once in a while - share a personal story or two, have a beer at the holiday party, and don't be afraid of showing your flaws. You don't have to be perfect. In fact, people will respect and like you more when you recognize your own weaknesses.

Keep Constant Communication
Leaders often expect their support staff to know what they're thinking without explicitly communicating it. They simply expect that people are all on the same train of thought. As a boss, you may forget that people are consumed with their own day-to-day activities. And most people aren't psychics! Tell your staff members what is expected of them. Communicate what you want and need. Talk to them. Involve them. Share with them your vision for the company.

EVERYONE Wants To Do Well
Remember that everyone, yes everyone, wants to succeed. People don't show up to work hoping to disappoint you or fail. They want to do a good job. They have career goals just like you. Find out what those goals are and help them succeed. Remember that their success is your success.