Reading Bob Sutton’s Book Good Boss, Bad Boss reminded me of all the great bosses I have met.
Plus, being reminded me of the bossholes I have met and worked for.
The theme of “what does it feel like to work for me” shows that many leaders have no idea.
When asked, “When I speak with the staff, what would they say it is like working for you?” it is too easy to fall into an optimistic illusion.
Bosses slip into this because they are the boss! And no matter how hard they try, that STINK of BOSS cannot be removed.
In Sutton’s Blog, he wrote;
“If you want to be a good boss, the big question you need to focus on is “what does it feel like to work for me.” If you want to start getting some answers to this question, bring someone in a meeting that you trust, and have them count three things, or even easier (although probably less accurate), evaluate yourself on these three questions:”
Bob Sutton
- How much do you talk compared to your followers?
- How often do you ignore, interrupt, or talk over people who are trying to make a point?
- When you speak, how often do you make statements versus ask questions?
A boss can fall into the arrogance of believing that you can help others AND you have nothing left to learn yourself.
Once any person (whoever and whatever your role) fools themselves into the belief that there is nothing left to learn – that is when the reality is lost.
Remember, you can and will always learn more.
The questions Sutton raises are helpful, how does your boss stack up? If you are the boss, how do you feel about these questions?
photo by striatic