12 Things That Will Make You a Better Boss

Every year Gallup polls show that roughly 50 - 60 percent of all employed Americans are completely satisfied with their bosses. These same polls show that just 30 percent of all employees are actively engaged at work. Managers, you have a job to do! But first, a little self-evaluation.

As the boss, you know there are a lot of things you can’t change about the work that needs to be done—demanding customers, tight schedules, evolving projects, etc. And you absolutely can’t please everyone all of the time. But it’s a fact that unengaged workers don’t produce. It’s also a fact that competition for great employees is tight, and usually when an employee leaves a company, it’s at least in part because of his or her manager.

What makes someone a good manager? The qualities of a bad boss? Are you making some mistakes that could drive employees away?

1. Communicate well and regularly. Help employees understand individual, team and company goals by giving clear directions. When they know what’s going on and what’s expected of them, they’re better able to prioritize and be successful (because they know how you define success).
2. Act and make decisions promptly. Progress takes good self-management and organization skills. When decisions or projects are delayed, the result is tighter deadlines, longer days and frustrated employees. Don’t be the source of delays.
3. Show appreciation or recognition often. Let employees know when they do something well—as often as possible. Pay attention to what they’re doing and say “good job” or “thank you.” Ask questions so you can stay up to date on progress. And know what motivates individual employees.
4. Don’t micromanage. Trust the employees you’ve chosen. Give experienced employees some freedom to solve problems and make choices, rather than trying to leave your mark on their projects. Micromanaging causes bottlenecks that slow progress and eventually makes your team unable to make decisions independently.
5. Walk the walk. If work hours are from 8:30 to 5, be there. Your team needs to see your commitment and willingness to get in the trenches. Experience things from your employees’ perspective.
6. Appreciate individual differences. No two people approach tasks the same way. Regardless of your personal likes and dislikes, see the value in different approaches and personalities. Take time to get to know each employee both personally and professionally.
7. Impress your people before trying to impress your boss. Your competence and helpfulness can inspire your team. When your work helps the team get things done, you won’t need to shine a spotlight on your abilities. Your team’s results will speak loudly to both them and your boss.
8. Take the high road when it comes to negativity. Employees want bosses who set an example for the culture they want. Don’t gossip, antagonize or pit employees against each other. These things can make workplaces more stressful.
9. Follow through. An employee delivers a completed project, an idea, a suggestion and then nothing happens. Show respect and credibility by following up with the employee and following through as promised.
10. Train well. Spend time onboarding new employees and bringing existing employees up to speed on new procedures and projects. This will clear the way to better understanding and outcomes.
11. Give both positive and negative feedback regularly. Constructive feedback is vital to employee growth. They need to hear from you daily about their work.
12. Stand by your employees and remove obstacles. Defend the employees who work for you. Step in to slay creeping project scopes, help with particularly difficult clients or remove roadblocks that are slowing progress. Employees (and bosses) sometimes make mistakes—handle these moments privately and respectfully.

Being the boss is a challenge. Being a GREAT boss takes consistent self-evaluation and continuous fine-tuning. With increasingly low unemployment, employees have options. Keep your team happier, make them more productive, and encourage them to stick around longer. Review and strengthen your management skills.