“The only time some people work like a horse is when the boss rides them.” True or False? I have been managing staff for the past 10 years and do not believe in this method of management. I have always been kind, generous and most of all understanding. At this moment in time, I am actually wondering if this is the correct method of management as lately I am the one being taken for a ride. The more you give, the more a person expects. It is not in my nature to be a dictator or a slave driver but was advised today that it does not pay to be a kind Boss, the law does not see kind, as all the kind things you do get thrown out of the window. I find this very sad.
Personally, I had 8 years in the Corporate world prior and I was an employee that worked extremely hard, would be asked to do something once and I would get on with it without having to be asked a second time. I would consider myself as a very dedicated and honest worker and would employ me any day 
I have always had a really good relationship with my Bosses and could honestly call them my friends that I met socially over weekends. However I had the utmost RESPECT for them at all times, something I find lacking today by some employees.
So what makes a good Boss anyway? Someone who is constantly looking over your shoulder and checking your every move or someone who trusts you to get on with your work to the best of your ability? Food for thought..comments would be much appreciated.
A good boss is having a balance of being that kind boss that everyone likes and being that dictator that “rides” their employees. Knowing when to be either one is difficult, and especially today when being that friend can lead to the lack of respect that you mention. Sometimes, you have to be that jerk that the employees don’t like, because it is necessary to push them into getting the job done right. As difficult and unpleasant as it is, they’re not paying you to be a friend. The employees should respect the fact that you’re working to get the job done, and as long as you don’t lose sight of that kind person that the employees can trust and relate to, you’ll be a good boss
Comment by richpalin — April 13, 2010 @ 10:47 pm |
I definately agree that there needs to be a balance. Thing is, I don’t enjoy being the jerk but I am if the need arises. Thanks for the input
Comment by brottonlass — April 14, 2010 @ 9:20 am |
It’s a hard one, Julie. I think it is about balance.
I think kindness should prevail, but with within boundaries and in keeping with the stipulation of contracts.
I don’t appreciate someone looking over my shoulder, but I do like a sense that my manager knows what I am doing – via regular meetings / emails, etc.
I think a lot of it depends on the work ethos and EQ of the employee – some people will abuse the kindness, others will find it motivating.
In our townhouse complex we are having problems with our gardener – previously no-one took much note of his sick leave, etc. Now that we are using leave forms, etc. he is upset – not his fault, as a bad precedent had been set. So while we are kind and understanding, we are also trying to coax him into understanding Labour law and his contract.
Hang in x x
Comment by Estelle — April 14, 2010 @ 9:07 am |
Absolutely agree 100% . My staff know that I have an open door should they have any problems and have regular meetings with them, including appraisals 2-4 times per year. I am “anal” when it comes to contracts, policy and procedure and sticking to the labour law. When things get bad though then the CCMA always gets thrown at you. Some employees just don’t have respect for the legal process and lands up in endless meetings which is such a waste of time and 10:1 money *frustrating*
Comment by brottonlass — April 14, 2010 @ 9:32 am |
Ja, I hear you about the total waste of time and money.
Sterkte!
Comment by Estelle — April 14, 2010 @ 11:11 am