Receiving a promotion at work can be a privilege and an exciting opportunity. Besides the pay increase and the sophisticated title, being a boss means you oversee people. It may seem that being a manager is an easy step up. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to be a good leader straight away.
It may be hard to differentiate between a boss and a leader. One way to view it is a boss is a title but being a leader is a mindset. Once you have established the distinction between a leader and a boss, it can be easier to understand the role. However, how can you be a good leader and not just a boss?
Your place in the team
One of the characteristics of a leader is that they place themselves in the heart of the team, whereas a boss values themselves higher than their employees. Despite a hierarchical difference between a boss and their employees, it is not necessary to intimidate people for respect.
Signage specialists instantprint surveyed 1,000 UK employees and found out that more than a fifth (22%) admitted it would “take a lot” for them to call in sick, even in the wake of a pandemic. This suggests some employees feel afraid or are not comfortable enough to talk about how they feel around their boss.
Being approachable is essential for good team communication. You want your employees to feel they can openly discuss any issues that arise at work. Therefore, having the mindset of a leader is so important when in charge of a team of people.
Inspiring your team
The purpose of a boss is to ensure the smooth running of an organisation. They must ensure all employees follow the rules, working to company guidelines and policies.
While a boss is a crucial part of a business hierarchy, there is a difference between ordering your employees and motivating them to do their job. In this instance, a leader encourages and inspires their team to work to the best of their ability. Being a role model is essential when motivating your employees to strive for their best and reach their full potential.
Leaders delegate authority
Typically, bosses have a strict timescale to adhere to and set goals to achieve in their department. However, telling employees what to do rather than encouraging them with authority and responsibility is not a productive way to lead.
By encouraging personal development and setting achievable goals, your employees will be more inclined to work hard and respect your leadership.
If you care about your employees as people, show that you can trust them and offer rewards for good work; you will take huge steps towards being a leader that staff members will be more than happy to work for.
Ingrid Maldine is a business writer, editor and management consultant with extensive experience writing and consulting for both start-ups and long established companies. She has ten years management and leadership experience gained at BSkyB in London and Viva Travel Guides in Quito, Ecuador, giving her a depth of insight into innovation in international business. With an MBA from the University of Hull and many years of experience running her own business consultancy, Ingrid’s background allows her to connect with a diverse range of clients, including cutting edge technology and web-based start-ups but also multinationals in need of assistance. Ingrid has played a defining role in shaping organizational strategy for a wide range of different organizations, including for-profit, NGOs and charities. Ingrid has also served on the Board of Directors for the South American Explorers Club in Quito, Ecuador.
