Remember the scene from “The Wizard of Oz” where the Cowardly Lion opines about what he’d do if he were king of the forest?
As employees, we’ve all had similar moments imagining how different things would be if we were the boss. Most things people imagine they’d do as boss ironically involve how employees would be treated. And it comes from firsthand experience.
“If you take care of your employees they will take care of your customers and your business will take care of itself,” said American businessman J.W. Marriott, one-time head of the National Restaurant Association who opened the first of the Marriott hotels in 1959.
Being the boss means being clear and concise in all communication. Inspiring and leading employees so they’ll love where they work. Giving employees a pat on the back for a job well done. Praising publicly and criticizing privately.
Don’t be nice for the sake of being nice. Take a genuine interest in your employees.
Hold everyone – including yourself – accountable and don’t ever play favorites.
What about having an environment where it’s ok to respectfully disagree with the boss without getting fired?
Finally, remember the old adage: “People don’t leave bad jobs; they leave bad bosses.”
Don’t be that boss!
What would you do if you were the boss? I’d love to hear your answers.
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