4 Tips to Being a Better Boss

You might consider yourself an expert in your field, but when it comes to managing other people, how do you rate? Do you struggle to connect with your staff or to maintain authority? If you're like most business owners, you likely could use a pointer or two when it comes to being a better boss.

Tip #1: Don’t Try to Be Your Employees’ Friend

The smaller your company, the closer you will be working with your staff. While you certainly want to get along with them, make sure you’re leading as a boss should. That means applying tough love and discipline if your staff gets out of line.

And while certainly you will want them to like you, remember this is not a popularity contest. It’s more important that your staff respect you than like you. That’s a tough pill for many to swallow, but it’s a tip that will serve you well.

Tip #2: Lead by Example

No one likes the kind of boss who practices “do as I say, not as I do.” They’ll be more likely to do what you want if you’re right there in the trenches with them. So if you ask your staff to work late on a Friday night, realize that you can’t simply walk out the door without repercussions.

Consider the type of culture you want your business to have. If you want everyone to be stiff-suited and formal, exude that professional image yourself. If you want a family feel, be the first one to practice Flip Flop Fridays.

Tip #3: Encourage Feedback and Act on It

An employee has to trust you in order to be candid with you about her work experience or even what’s happening among her coworkers. And she won’t trust you if she gives you feedback that you never do anything about.

A good boss will listen to his staff and take measures to honor their requests. Sure, that ping pong table in the break room might be a pipe dream, and if it is, be honest about that up front. But for work-related suggestions, do your best to accommodate.

Tip #4: Know When to Bow Out

Being a manager may not be your strength, and that’s okay. But you’ve got to know when to step aside and bring someone else in who can do a better job at managing your team. Instead of forcing that role, focus on what you do best, which is probably strategy and running your business.

If you truly care about being a better boss, put more effort into being one. Simply being the head of your company does not automatically make you a great boss — or even a good one. Read books and blogs on leadership and management, and attend seminars to sharpen your skills. If it’s important to you to learn how to lead, realize it will take time and effort to succeed.