Bad boss stories and comments are perennial since almost all of us have had a bad boss at some time during our career. But, I also receive comments posted by readers about their good bosses whom they admire, respect, and wish to emulate.
I know the topic may not be quite as exciting as bad bosses, but good bosses deserve recognition, too. Share your good boss story. Other readers have shared their good boss stories, too.
Boss's Day
So, in honor of National Boss's Day on October 16, I pulled this comment from Sasha that she made on my Still Hate HR post. Sasha says:
"I have been at companies where there were 'bad' HR representatives and companies where there were 'good' HR representatives. I believe one poster said it all - 'Your HR department can only be as good as the executive management.' Yes, employees need to understand that ultimately your HR rep works for the company as do you.
"However, it doesn't mean that you shouldn't feel comfortable going to your HR department with an issue and expect it to be handled fairly. I have worked for companies with hatchet HR reps. Everyone dreaded seeing them and they really weren't advocates for anyone but the company. You couldn't expect to be treated fairly or your situation handled humanely. It was all about the company's legal protection.
"Now, I am with a company who puts the Human in Human Resources. Since changing directions in my career, my HR Director took me under her wing and has mentored me. She explained the processes of our company, which I've always believed are fair. First, she says when a manager comes to her asking to let someone go, she has a checklist they must complete to ensure it is not just someone pissed off at an employee.
"Every effort is made to ensure there is no other alternative to letting an employee go. Additionally, if an employee has a complaint about a manager, then information is compiled discreetly before any steps are further taken. The ultimate goal is to have a happy, productive staff all around. Of course, not all situations have a happy ending but what I appreciate is that every recourse is utilized before a decision is made.
"Although we are not a large company, with less than 400 employees, our HR department pretty much knows each person and whether they have a family, are married, etc. Employees understand that when they approach our HR department with personal or company issues, it remains confidential.
"When issues arise of which they question, do they contact our legal counsel? Of course. They want to ensure they are not only protecting the company, but the employee as well. That is one reason why counsel is retained.
"It is very unfortunate that many HR representatives are unable to do their jobs effectively. I think it is because a lot of them cannot distinguish between personal and business. They get defensive when confronted with issues and take it as a personal affront.
"I am pleased to be associated with such a caring company. And, one day, when I grow up, I want to be just like my HR Director!"
Want to see more? Other readers share their good boss stories.
Image Copyright Jack Hollingsworth
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What makes a good boss, good? When a boss conducts and respect himself/herself as a professional. A good boss treat all employees fair, this means there is no preferential treatments or favoritism in the workplace. A good boss motivates, coaches and mentors employees, has a servicery attitude towards employees, acts as a role model for employees to follow. A good boss encourages cultral diversity, tolerance and respect for each other in the workplaces.
A good boss cares about the Company and the employees’ contribution towards the Company’s success.
A good boss gets steps in front of bullets and moves out of the way of praise.