How To Be The Best Boss Ever November 4, 2015Featured, My CareerOff

Yes! You finally got the promotion you deserved, and you’re the boss. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, it’s not always easy adapting to the role of manager or boss. It’s particularly difficult if you’ve moved up the ranks. Managing your old colleagues is going to be a shock to the system, and the office dynamics will change.

If you’re starting an entirely new job, it’s a little easier to walk in and command respect. But, there’s still a big challenge ahead! We all like to think we’d be the best boss in the building. However, when it comes down to it, how can you lead the team like a pro?

That’s what we’re looking at today. We’ll show you how to gain the respect of your team, and instil confidence. We’ll look at how to get the very best out of your employees, and make sure your division is thriving. Without further ado, let’s jump straight into the first piece of advice.

Lead by example. Quite simply, don’t ask your team to do anything you wouldn’t do yourself. Be a part of the team, and don’t shun your responsibilities. Be the first to accept responsibility, but share the rewards of good work. That’s the first rule to gathering the respect of your colleagues. They need confidence in your abilities before they’ll follow your lead. In terms of attitude, approach the job as you want your employees to approach theirs. Get to work on time. Act with compassion and respect. Lead your team by example, and they’ll follow.

Be a mentor. Don’t just view your team as a workforce. And don’t think of yourself as parent. Think of yourself as a mentor. Get to know each member of your team individually. Ask them about their passions and ambitions for their career. It’s your job to help them get there. Unlock their ambition, and harness it for the company. Actively help your employees move up the company ladder. Distribute tasks based on their passions and abilities. Help them grow, and you’ll earn a ton of respect in return.

Admit when you’re wrong. A great sign of leadership is the ability to admit when you are wrong. This strong personality trait shows humility. It generates respect within your team. It’s not always easy to admit your failures! Especially for the most stubborn bosses. But, it will help strengthen your team. It will also make you seem human (which is a good thing!) It makes you more approachable and more understanding.

Stay at the top of your game. Becoming boss is just the start. From here on, it’s up to you to stay at the top of the game. You’ve got to know all the latest news before everyone else. You’ve got to have a plan ready as soon as the new project comes in. You’ve got to stay at the top of your game and lead! It’s up to you to know exactly what’s going on in global business today. What’s happening right now, and how will that affect your team and your current project? Read trade journals, blogs, and newspapers on a daily basis. Stay ahead, and react quickly!

Give your team space. There’s a fine line to walk here. Remember, you’re a mentor. You’re trying to help your employees grow and develop. But, you don’t want to smother them and micromanage. Set them tasks, and trust them to get it done. Give them room to work. Constantly checking up on progress breeds distrust and a lack of confidence. Show them that you trust them to get the job done. Make sure they know that you’re there and approachable if needed. It’s a tricky balance to get right, but it’s a skill worth perfecting.

Empathy. No-one likes the boss who tries to be everyone’s best friend! But, equally, no-one likes the cold, hard boss who has no concern for people’s feelings! Being a boss is all about straddling these various lines, and striking a balance. Understand that your employees have a life outside work. Give them some flexibility if they need it. Empathise with their problems, and make things easier for them. Ask about their partners or children when appropriate, and show an interest in their life.

Open door policy. Lastly, make sure you give your employees an open-door policy. But, it’s up to you to reach out to them first. Build the connection so they feel comfortable coming to you with suggestions, feedback, and ideas.

With great power comes great responsibility! Being the boss isn’t always easy, but it’s very rewarding. Have you got any tricks of your own?

Photo by Davydov | Shutterstock

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