So, you’ve got this plum job and a fancy new title? Well, we bet you wouldn’t want to be that person whose subordinates talk about unfondly during lunch breaks (because that’s the only time they’re allowed to talk) as, “Ugh, terrible boss…”
We’re not so sure which category of bosses you fall into. But if you tick off all the boxes on the list below, then you’re doing this ‘boss’ thing all wrong.
Intimidation
You like to show authority and demand respect, instead of earning it. To you, maintaining power and authority, in whatever means possible, is a priority.
You never ensure that they are sufficiently challenged or invest in their learning and development to help them to develop their skills.
Our advice: Try inspiring your team by recognizing their strengths and helping them improve their weaknesses.
Criticism
No mistake gets past you, as you watch for and readily analyse them. Threats and blackmail are your choicest weapon in dealing with subordinates.
Your team complete tasks ahead of scheduled of time, but you never give them a fulfilling sense of completion or celebrate their input.
Our advice: Look for ways to inspire your team. Encourage them by providing solutions to the challenges they might face on the job.
Commands
You give orders and your requests must be fulfilled – no questions asked. Subordinates are threatened with suspension and sack if tasks are not completed on time.
You are the “boss” and would rather not listen to what people at the bottom of the ladder say. That may be suicidal in longer run.
Our advice: Make time and resources available to your team to finish tasks. Set out to help and stop apportioning blame.
Hands off
You make decisions but never do the work. You are uninterested in the progress of work unless it directly affects you.
Your subordinates look up to you. They may even consider you a hero. If you cannot show your heroism when needed, you will lose their respect gradually.
Our Advice: Recognize full autonomy but know when to get involved. Deal with issues immediately, as your team reports them.
Did you find these tips helpful? Tell us in the comments!
