My post earlier this week was about four hard-learned lessons
from 40 years in the workplace, sort of a 532-word survival guide.
But, as I reflected, I realized there can be as much sun as
shadow in the office … and I’m not talking about windows (though they are highly
coveted among government workers). Light and warmth brings me to the fifth element,
which you can pursue or luck into.
And, like in the science fiction movie starring Bruce
Willis, the fifth element can seem like a visitor from another
world or some other rare species.
What is it?
A great boss.
What makes a boss great?
Here’s how an article
on the job search website Monster.com defines it.
My definition is briefer. A great boss challenges you,
supports and enables your growth, takes responsibility and knows that growth in
the workplace, like baseball, is not error-free (note to reader: if you mess up, fess up). To extend the
sports analogy, a great boss coaches you privately and recognizes you publicly.
Loudspeakers are nice.
All of which can come together to make the employee (almost)
be willing to walk on hot coals for the boss.
Why are these bosses so few and far between? Lack of good training, yes. But it also takes
interpersonal skills and intrapersonal knowledge. But, most importantly, it
takes a desire to develop and support people. And, that, gentle leader, takes
time – time to learn and time, a lot of time out of the day, to do the right
things by and for your people. Such as listening. As my mother says, “listening
to hear.”
This is the boss, the great boss, I had at my last job,
which made retirement even more bittersweet.
My hope is that Congress gets its financial act together and my
retirement opens a spot so a young person can learn, thrive, contribute to the
mission, and have fun.
It can, and does, happen.
I know. Thanks Boss!
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