How Important is it to Be a “Good Boss”?

A recent study found that 65% of employees would choose a good boss over a pay raise if they had to choose. What most people want more of is recognition and praise. It is also true that the main reason good talented people leave a company is because of their boss … even if they like the organization.

So being a good boss is very important. How do you do that?

A short list of ways include:

• Be respectful even when people make mistakes. Let them know you care. (If you don’t care, get out of being a boss.)
• Be clear in your expectations and make sure they understand.  Let them know why you want something.
• Express appreciation for their contribution, even if you think it is just doing their job.
• Know them personally and be interested in them personally. Don’t assume they know you care.
• Demonstrate high integrity in all that you do.
• Be interested and supportive of their personal development.

There are libraries full of books on how to be a good boss, but it is not that complicated if you make it a priority.