Are You a "Good" Boss?

1. Speak with respect – It seems that respect has taken a back seat to disrespectful verbal and non-verbal behavior that is rampant in our society. It is time to put respect back into business and life. It starts at the top with the boss. Do not shout at or speak harshly to your employees or interrupt them when they are speaking. If a manager is harsh, condescending, arrogant or rude, how does that inspire an employee to want to do their best for the company? Speak with respect to your employees.

2. Eliminate sarcasm from your delivery style - do not make fun of or embarrass your employees. Sarcasm and public displays of criticism are negative. Negativity breeds anger, resentment, and frustration. These emotions and feelings create stress which can lead to decreased productivity, decreased enjoyment, increased illness, increased absenteeism, and increased turnover. Give your employees positive feedback on what they are doing well.

3. Be a good listener - Communication is about more than speaking; it is also about listening. If we expect our employees to listen to what we have to say, then we must be willing to listen to them as well. Listening allows your employees to be heard and feel validated. It is not productive for an employee to leave your office thinking I’m never going to her again since she does not listen and acts like she knows it all. Be a good listener.

4. Think before speaking - Before reacting to a situation, think about the ramifications of what you will say to the employee. If an employee is not performing or doing what you ask them, then take a few minutes to figure out what you can say to inspire them to comply with your request, rather than discourage them with words that are harsh or demeaning.

5. Act calm and confident - Have a calm tone of voice, speak softer and slower, and smile. What you say and how you say it will either make your employees want to come to work because of the positive atmosphere that you create, or dread coming to work because of the negative environment. Take a look at your management style. Commit to being a positive, calm, caring, confident, and good boss.

These five tips will help you create an environment that promotes productivity, teamwork, and success to increase overall profitability and foster a winning attitude among your company’s stakeholders.

Anne Smith, Ph.D. Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved.

Anne Smith, Ph.D., the only tennis player in history who has won 10 Grand Slam championships and earned a doctorate, works with executives, managers, and bosses who want to develop a prescription for success. Dr. Smith is the author of two books titled GRAND SLAM: Coach Your Mind to Win in Sports, Business, and Life and MACH 4TM Mental Training System: A Handbook for Athletes, Coaches, and Parents.