Google Picks Prime Ingredients for Leaders
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us know good material when we see it. That goes for bosses and co-workers. Recently Google made this a focus, studying what makes bosses great.
Dr. Travis Bradberry, co-founder of TalentSmart, an agency that services 75 percent of Fortune 500 companies, recently spotlighted Google’s efforts to pick great bosses.
Google said it found people are valued for their passion, insight and honesty. If you think about it, those qualities could be goals for all of us. As you read the list, you may agree. See what you think.
They really care – The bosses that I valued the most always cared about the job. No matter how long the day, or how tired they might be, they were always willing to lend a hand. I never felt they were just putting in their time. That was true of many of the great co-workers I have known, too.
They could be counted on – The bosses that made the difference always took the time to listen, and then tried to make a difference. This is true of co-workers, too. The ones you remember were never too busy to offer help when it was needed.
They help everyone – Really good bosses want the job to go well, but they also want their employees to thrive. Instead of looking for the glory, these bosses try to create a great working team in which everybody benefits. Co-workers quickly pick up on this, and work harder. Knowing you are part of a strong team is invaluable.
They are always real – Good bosses may have ups and downs, but they can be counted on to give a straight answer every time. I worked for a dynamic director who faced all sorts of challenges every day. He gave it his best shot, and did very well. When a project did not go his way, he rolled up his sleeves and tried again. He was one of the most real people I have ever known.
They are fun to know – It really is true. A little humor can go a long way to make things work. I have watched many bosses make a difference, but the ones who were valued the most by their employees always seemed to see the funny side. Sometimes when we were digging through a project it was hard to keep smiling, but the bosses that were valued the most always managed to see the lighter side.
As you think about your best work memories of bosses and co-workers, this list might be a reminder to all of us to give it our best shot. That’s when the game gets good.
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