When we first begin our businesses, it’s easy to be idealistic. Over time, those ideals may leave you or become adapted to the realism of your situation. It’s very easy to think that you’re going to rocket to the top of your industry, for instance, but it might take a long time for people to truly recognize the value of your brand. You may wish to be the kind of leader that always has something important to say, always offers an amazing visionary approach, and is always 100% confident in their action.
Perhaps those are ideals to consider. However, it’s often the case that opting for the best of ourselves, not the best thing ever, can help us become better at whatever practice we find important. Setting an example as a competent boss, then, becomes easier in this light. But what does this mean in practice, and how might you ensure it’s not only an effort you strive for but a practical reality of your team-based management?
Those are great questions. Let’s consider their answers:
Providing Your Staff With The Tools They Need
There’s nothing more frustrating for a staff member to have to deal with than a lack of stock, tools or techniques to better complete their job. It might mean stocking your garage with MAN engine spare parts, or ensuring the office printer is fully functional and even old equipment like your fax machine is carefully sustained in case it is needed. Providing your staff with the tools they need means developing a competent and responsible approach to inventory.
Don’t Be Friends, Be Respected
Often, bosses that do their best to try and become friends with their staff aren’t respected, because they don’t command respect. You need to be firm but fair with your staff, praise them when it’s required instead of showing them with it and cheapening its value. It means being a listener, someone who is able to encourage the confidence of your staff. It means rarely asking them to do something that you wouldn’t be able to manage yourself, to some degree. You can care for your staff and be for them always without having to force their friendship. That’s how most people want to relate to their boss.
Hold To Your Own Standards
Holding to your own standards is important. This can be as simple as ensuring you’re the best-dressed person in the office, that you show up to work each and every time, and that you do not gossip even when you feel like doing so. Holding up to your own standards means keeping your desk tidy, it means doing your utmost to never be hypocritical, and sometimes, it even means apologizing or accepting responsibility when it’s due. This inspires a team and shows you are truly worthy of being in a leadership position.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily set an example as a competent boss. In the long run, this will no doubt help you feel more competent and put together.
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