1. Take Care Of Your People
The first step to being a great boss is realizing that you're not the only one doing something for the company. Your staff is actually responsible for the bulk of the work. That's why, as a leader, you have to take care of the people underneath you.
Focus on your worker's strengths, know their weaknesses, and customize the work accordingly. Don't ask them to take care of back-office functions when you know they are capable of so much more. Make use of BPO (business process outsourcing) companies to handle the menial tasks. Give your employees projects that will develop their potential.
2. Recognize Efforts
Once your employees complete the projects you give them, a little recognition is in order. Even if it's just an acknowledging smile or a pat on the shoulder. What they do for your company can be mentally draining, especially if it's done often. Let your employees know that you pay attention to your workforce, and that you acknowledge each of their efforts.
But don't go overboard. You want to be a good boss, not a pushover. If the job is exceptionally done, then you can personally congratulate the person. If it's half-baked, express disappointment. Don't just tell everyone “good job!” even though you know they could have done something better. You want to come off as appreciative, not easy to please.
3. Honest, Not Harsh
As the boss, you walk the tightrope everyday. You have a lot of employees to deal with and not enough time. When a problem pops up, you either dismiss it, or you blow your top over it. When you want it over and done with, people think you couldn't care less. When you blow your top, you're Monster Boss.
Find the balance. Don't be so blunt that you dismiss people, but don't be confrontational either. For example, when an employee takes personal calls while at the desk, calmly and conversationally ask to see him in your office. Don't scream at him to get his butt in your office, now. Once he's inside, gently remind him of the company policy regarding personal calls.
You can ask if the call was an emergency. If it was, express concern. If it wasn't, don't demand to know the nature of the call. (“So if it wasn't an emergency, why'd you answer it?”) Simply ask him not to repeat it, and then let him go.
It's as simple as that, really. So many exceptional employees look for virtual assistant jobs online and other internet careers because they can't handle their superiors. Don't be one of those bosses. Learn to take care of and appreciate the people under you.
