Somebody has to be the boss, but nobody has to be the bad boss who makes everyone else’s life just a little bit harder. Nobody wants to be that boss, but sometimes some of us slip into that role without even realising it’s what we’ve done.
The good news is, being a bad boss is far from inevitable, and you can very much make sure that you are that great boss that makes working for your business enjoyable. Sounds good? Check out these tips on how not to be the bad boss right now.
1. Communicate Clearly and Often
If you want to frustrate your team then being a bad communicator is a pretty good way to do it. If they are never clear what you are asking them to do, or when they need to get it done by, then they are always going to be on edge, and they risk being on the wrong side of you when they keep having to ask you to clarify. No one does their best work that way, so make sure whether you are speaking to them in person, or sending them instructions via email, you are as clear as possible, and that you make it clear, questions from them are always welcome.
2. Don’t Micromanage
Good bosses trust their team, bad bosses micromanage them. This is a near universal truth and one that you would be wise to pay heed of if you want your team, and your business to thrive.
When you micromanage, not only do you annoy your team and destroy their confidence in their own abilities to get things done, but you also ruin your business efficiency because when staff are allowed to think for themselves they are more likely to solve problems efficiently, because they are the ones doing that work day-to-day.
3. Lead by Example
Don’t be the boss who has a “do as I say, not as I do” attitude, because this will only get people’s backs up and make them feel like you have double standards (and no one likes double standards). If you expect them to be punctual, you should be too. If you expect them to be efficient, you should too. It’s that simple.
4. Make Employee Wellbeing a Priority
A bad boss pushes staff to the edge; a good one ensures workloads are manageable and support is available. Overworking employees not only damages morale but can also lead to health problems. In worst-case scenarios, you may end up with staff making a back injury at work claim because of unsafe practices, unrealistic physical demands, or inadequate training. Do the right thing, and protect your staff and your business.
5. Recognise and Reward Good Work
No one wants to work hard for a boss who doesn’t notice, and rewards do not have to be expensive. Give your staff regular feedback on their performance, and make sure that you reward hard work, whether it’s with a “Good job, keep it up,” a free lunch or a bonus at the end of the year. It will definitely be appreciated, and the good work is likely to persist.
What other examples do you have that demonstate good or poor management? Feel free to share in the comments
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