10 Qualities of a Great Boss:

1. Lets employees shine:
A great boss lets you shine. They know your strengths, and are sure to put employees in positions that highlight those strengths.

2. Patience and Understanding:
A great boss understands that sometimes employees face obstacles that can get in the way of productivity. Be it a death in the family, car troubles, a doctor visit- a top-notch boss understands that employees have a life outside of work that needs time and attention to maintain.

3. Adequate Pay:
A great boss knows that many people are money-motivated, sometimes by need rather than by choice, and offers the pay that each employee deserves (based on performance). They also understand that their employees not only need enough to live off of, but a little bit extra to play with, too.

4. Utilizes Rewards Systems:
Whether it be overtime, work-gatherings or extra time off, a great boss rewards their employees for exemplary work. A great boss understands that in order to see results, positive change must be rewarded. (See "Classical Conditioning")

5. Optimism:
An optimistic boss is one that employees will look up to. Not only is a great boss optimistic about the company's success, but each employee's personal success- therefore encouraging employees to perform at their peak with ease and a smile.

6. Complimentary:
A great boss gives compliments to employees when compliments are due, and sometimes even just after small feats. The bosses that stand out are the ones that will page or email an employee just to say "You're doing a great job, keep it up!"

7. Space and Time:
Space and time are an important thing for a great boss to factor in. She or he won't be constantly nagging, and won't expect work to be completed in an unreasonable time frame. They will encourage employees to set reasonable goals for themselves, and will reward employees that excel instead of punishing those that are distracted.

8. Facilitates Teamwork:
A great boss brings in a team for big decisions, and takes a democratic approach to change and progress within the company. They will encourage employees to share ideas and learn from their peers, as well as keep their office door open for inquiries.

9. Sets a Good Example:
A great boss is someone that employees look up to, and someone that they are grateful to have running the business. A great boss is someone who is calm in times of stress, commands attention, and respects their employees. They are someone with the type of confidence that makes employees want to follow their example- which results in positive growth!

10. Provides Space, and a Comfortable Work Environment:
Lastly, a great boss is one that physically gives each employee enough space to breathe. Someone who would rather expand the size of the building than have their employees breathing down each other's necks. They are someone who makes sure to offer a chair that works well for an employee's back, a desk that they can fit their five cups of coffee on, and a work-area with enough space for them to get up and take a walk if needed.


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From an employee's standpoint- What are some qualities of your boss that you admire? What are some areas that they could improve? If you were in their footsteps, what would you do differently?

From an employer's standpoint- What do your employees appreciate about you? What could you do differently?