It’s Boss’ Day – What Exceptional Bosses Do

Gina BrehmerOffice Insights

Today, Thursday, October 16, is National Boss’ Day! Since 1958 an entire day has been set aside to recognize managers/supervisors for providing great leadership. This fun day began as a way to say thank you to bosses, but has since gained popularity for being an opportunity to build relationships with leaders and co-workers.

The relationship you have with your boss is one of the most crucial relationships you have in your day-to-day work-life. Although I’m still early in my career, I have been fortunate to observe and appreciate qualities of an exceptional boss. Do you recognize any of the following in your boss? If so, today is the day to let them know how much you appreciate it.

They Encourage Employee Independence

Great organizations are built on enhancing processes and procedures. Yet, every task doesn’t deserve a best practice or a micro-managed approach. Engagement and satisfaction are largely based on autonomy and independence. An exceptional boss gives employees the autonomy and independence to work the way they work best.

They Lead by Example

All great leaders lead by example. A great leader can’t expect those they are leading to do something that they would not do themselves.
One must practice what one preaches to gain acceptance.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” –John F. Kennedy

They Communicate Clearly

An exceptional boss focuses on healthy lines of communication with their employees. They often have an open door policy to their office, or make it a point to talk to their staff on a daily basis. Great bosses make themselves available to discuss interoffice issues, which helps their team learn to confide and trust them.

They Ask Questions

Great leaders always ask questions; for self-improvement and for the improvement of others. A truly successful leader seeks the counsel of others to be able to make informed decisions. Exceptional leaders know the lasting value of asking employees for their ideas to solutions in  their area of expertise. By doing so, they make their employees feel empowered, valued, and respected for their knowledge. Employees become more engaged when they feel they have a leader who listens to them and cares about their opinions.

They Praise and Show Gratitude

Exceptional leaders know how to instill a deep sense of personal satisfaction and accomplishment in individual team members. They help employees develop a strong sense of self-confidence and self-praise that outweighs any pat-on-the-back or monetary award provided.

Exceptional bosses come in all shapes and sizes. They can be quiet, aggressive, thoughtful, and insightful. They lead by example and create a workplace environment that rewards ambition and loyalty. Great bosses care and are both friends and mentors that have the ability to propel our careers.

What qualities do you appreciate in your boss? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!