Sure you get some extra perks when you are the boss. Your position may allow you to take a longer lunch, or work from home, but there is no need to flaunt your status, (they get it,) and it certainly shouldn’t get in the way of you getting your tasks completed or become an excuse for you dumping more work on your staff. That’s not delegating.
As a leader in your organization you should make sure you are setting a good example so you develop and keep the respect of your staff. You are the one who sets the standards for work and behavior. Think about what you expect and what is important to you and your organization. Make sure you are modeling the way and not creating obstructions. Here are some basics:
- Always be prompt. If you want people to get to work on time, make sure you do. If you are going to be late, let them know so they are not waiting around for approval on something. If you are respectful of time, they will be inclined to do the same.
- Be wary of friendships at work with your staff. It happens, but you need to remain impartial when it comes to the work. If you do develop a friendship with a member of your staff, don’t hide it, it will only cause more speculation and increased attention. Keep everything as in the open as possible. Avoid behind closed door meetings. Friendships can often turn quickly into lawsuits, so try to keep your work relationship separate from your personal relationship. Don’t make promises you can’t keep, or that could be misconstrued as favoritism. Use common sense and monitor other staff members’ behaviors and comments. If you see other staff members avoiding your friend, the perception of your relationship may be something you did not intend. In the workplace, perception is reality.
- Communicate with professionalism. Don’t raise your voice. As a leader, you are expected to remain calm and unemotional when communicating with your staff. Don’t take things personally so you won’t become defensive. It’s all about reaching a common goal. If they are not meeting your expectation, speak to them in private and focus on the problem and solution.
- Be accountable. Don’t hesitate to say you are wrong when you are wrong. Don’t over-react, pass blame or lie. Accept any negative consequences and work toward a solution. This will make it easier for your staff to do the same when necessary.
- Show your appreciation when things go right. Celebrate and share the glory.
Thoughts…….. Contact me at abbe@TECResourceCenter.com