Think back on a few of the jobs you’ve had. Which ones do you remember the most fondly? What do they have in common? For most people, their favorite jobs were the ones with the best managers. Having a boss who genuinely cares and intentionally adds value to your work experience is life-changing.
Well, now you’re the boss, and you have the same opportunity to make or break the job experience for your team! (No pressure, right?) Want to become a better leader? Here are four tips to help!
Tip #1: Talk with transparency.
Include your team in reviewing the company’s key performance metrics (KPIs). Let them know when things are going well and when things aren’t going so well. Be honest about your struggles, and ask them for their advice and expertise when you need it. Transparency does not communicate weakness; it demonstrates that you are trustworthy and honest with your team members.
Tip #2: Pinpoint potential.
Your team has skills and abilities that you don’t have, and that’s good -- that’s the purpose of a team! Take time to talk to your team members individually about their likes, dislikes, and past work experience. If you see a talent, say so! Give your team opportunities to do what they love and what they’re good at. Open up chances to brainstorm and create, not just follow instructions.
Tip #3: Go for growth.
Doing the same thing over and over isn’t fun for anyone, including your team members. The opposite of staying the same is, of course, growing! A good leader desires to help his/her team grow in their skill sets and confidence levels. Provide unique assignments and challenges to your team regularly to avoid the “stuck-in-a-rut” feeling. Be strategic about these assignments -- pick things that are tough but not impossible, and select tasks that align with your member’s skill set.
Tip #4: Be the boss you wish you had.
Last but not least, follow the “golden rule” of bosses: Be the boss you wish you had! Care for your team. Take genuine interest in who they are as people. Your team can tell what is real and what is contrived, so keep your intentions open and honest. You just might end up being remembered as the best boss someone ever had!