"The Rate Your Boss poll reveals just how strongly Canadians feel about working for someone they consider to be a good boss. Bosses who have the skills and talent to bring out the best in their employees can make an exceptional contribution not just to the bottom line but to the quality of work life."
Like the rest of us, the demands placed on managers and bosses are ever increasing as change accelerates and resources dwindle. Proficiency in all that the role of "boss" entails is not a simple accomplishment. Those of us with experience working with people know that one of the most effective ways to change behavior and help an individual achieve their full potential is through positive individual relationships. We learn from others in so many ways. Guidance provided through respectful, positive, supportive relationships plays a significant part in every individual´s learning and development. As organizations strive to improve performance, the value provided by the individuals in the role of "boss" is highlighted.
Turning back to the survey, I find it interesting that the top ranking 50 represented the perfect boss. (I am confident that none of us would include "perfect" as a selection on our performance appraisal ranking scale). Keeping the scale in mind, -50 to 50 with zero representing a fair rating and 50 representing the perfect score, overall, Canadian employees ranked their bosses as "half way to perfect," so there is some room for growth.
Responses are categorized by sector, job category and region with some faring better than others, but in general ...
The three top-rated criteria included:
- Letting employees know what is expected
- Taking employees' well-being into consideration
- Making work challenging and stimulating
The areas requiring improvement revolved around admitting mistakes, being a born leader, helping others reach full potential and considering employees´ viewpoints.
As a number of factors impact the outcome in the areas identified, it is important also to consider the role of organizational culture, resources and processes in these ratings.
This interesting survey provides a light look at the state of our country´s management and is acting as yet another reminder of the importance of the work we do in HR and the significant role that "bosses" play in the everyday lives of employees.
For more information on the survey:
http://greatboss.monster.ca
