I’ve seen a lot of great bosses up close. They come in all shapes and sizes. They work in a variety of industries. But they all make time to touch base a lot and when they do, they make every encounter count.
Take Time: When we think something is important, we give it time. Your relationships with team members are important. Give them time. That’s how you get your “real” work done.
Set the Example: Your team members pay attention to how you act for clues about what you want from them. Act accordingly. Use what you say and do to influence what team members say and do.
Watch and Listen: Watching and listening are the ways you learn. Use them to learn about your team members and how they work. Use them to get a sense of the challenges team members face.
Have a Conversation: Conversations are the way that positive relationships grow. When there’s time, take the time to have conversations with team members. You don’t have to limit the subjects to work.
Praise: Seek opportunities to give legitimate praise. You can praise achievement or improvement or effort. Don’t dilute your praise with “but.” You don’t have to limit your praise to work, either.
Coach: Take time to coach the team or a team member. Coaching is helping a team member do better in the future.
Ask the Key Question: The key question is “What can I do to help you?”
Say “Thank you”: They may know that you appreciate their work, but it’s nice to hear it.
More From Wally Bock
Master the Craft of Being a Great Boss
In addition to writing the Three Star Leadership blog, Wally Bock is an author, ghostwriter, writing coach and book doctor. In his past lives he has run a small publishing company, been a popular keynote speaker to audiences around the world, and served as a U. S. Marine. He loves good beer, good friends, and good stories.
