How to Be a Good Boss

Dale Carnegie Training®

Question:

I have just become the new boss in my department.  This is a bit scary for me because I want to start off on the right foot with my department.  It is important for me to know what entails being a good boss so I can show my boss he made the right choice in promoting me and I am more than capable of leading a department.  Any input on this?

Answer:

Congratulations on your promotion.  I have no doubt in my mind your boss made the right choice in choosing you.  Most likely, he thinks you are a proactive individual who will work hard to achieving company goals.  There are many qualities a good boss encompasses.  To be a good boss, keep these five things in mind. 

1. A good boss listens to his team.  Your team can give you valuable input and ideas.  Listen to what they have to say about things and take them into consideration. 
2. A good boss sets goals for his team.  Look at the company goals and tie them into measurable goals for your department.  Be specific in the goals you set. 
3. A good boss gives recognition and praise.  Show your team you see what they are doing.  People like to be recognized for their work.  People like to know they are important to their team and a valuable asset. 
4. A good boss leads his team with confidence.  Be assertive and confident in voicing your opinion and what you want to get done.  Stay proactive and follow up with your team on projects. 
5. A good boss sets a good example to follow.  Be aware of your actions and set an example for your department to look up to. 

By Michael Crom

Executive Vice President, Dale Carnegie Training®

If you have any business related questions or would like advice on other workplace issues, visit our web site at www.bc.dalecarnegie.com or mailto:paul.sinkevich@dalecarnegie.com

How To Be a More Positive Person

Dale Carnegie Training®

Question:

Whenever I get to work, my mood seems to change drastically.  I feel unmotivated to do anything and get irritated at my coworkers quickly.  I was not always like this.  All aspects in my life are going just fine and I do not understand why I have turned into such an unhappy person at work.  Do you have any advice on how to have a brighter day at work? 

Answer:

Many people go through this at some point in their life with their career.  It sounds like you’re just at a standstill and need change. There are several good ways to overcome this and get back to being the positive person you once were.    

1. Make or refresh your goals.  Think about what you want from your career right now.  Do you need new goals to achieve?  Do you need something more challenging? 
2. Talk to your boss.  Perhaps your responsibilities are getting too mundane and you need some new projects.  Ask your boss if there are new goals or something new you can tackle.
3. Try new paths.  Sometimes it takes a while to figure out whether this job is for you.  Maybe there is another department or type of work you think you will be happier at.  Contemplate all the projects you enjoyed doing and what you didn’t like.  Is this the type of job you were looking for or did you want something different?   
4. Smile.  A smile is contagious.  When you’re smiling, others will smile back at you.  This can put you in a better mood and lessen your irritation at your coworkers.    

-Michael Crom, Executive Vice President of Dale Carnegie Training®

If you have any business related questions or would like advice on other workplace issues, visit our web site at www.bc.dalecarnegie.com or email me at paul.sinkevich@dalecarnegie.com.