How to be a Great Boss

While a holiday bonus, espresso machine, and a nap room are the typical ways to boost employee engagement, we often forget how much the little things really make a difference. Here are 5 ways to be the type of boss that others want to work for, one who drives employee engagement and inspires others.

- Take time to check in: It doesn't have to be formal, just walk the halls and make it a point to go out of your way to stop, look at someone and ask how they're doing or what they did over the weekend. It's so easy, hardly takes any time of out your day and will mean a lot to your team to have their boss stop and essentially say "I see you, I care about how you're doing, and I'm lucky to have you on my team".

- Give everyone a voice: Make sure not only the loudest members of a group are being heard, but encourage participation and input from everyone on your team. This will not only boost team confidence and show your support, but also create a stronger output or product when ideas are coming from all directions.

- Foster activities separate from work: Great bosses know that your work should not be your life. Encourage activities outside of work, such as vacation time, volunteer work, or even a company sports league. When you are healthy and balanced outside of work you can deliver at your best when you are at work.

- Set clear goals and provide the education and tools needed to be successful: To grow a successful team, good bosses know how to identify opportunities and turn them into strengths. It is not enough to set high goals or standards, you have to ensure you are also providing the resources, training, and education needed to achieve them.

- Train your replacement: Lead by example, and coach your team to their fullest potential. Share information and empower others. Great bosses make those around them great, through mentoring, teaching, and empowering.

#team #leadership #inspiration #coach #engagement