Ten Ways to Get from Being a Good Boss to a Great Boss

Have you heard yourself described by your employees as a being "good boss" but would like to change that to "great boss"? What does it take to go from being a good to great boss? To be a 'perfect boss' is not attainable but here are ten quick tips to try that may allow you to be greater than good.

1. Help your team set goals

The most important key to becoming a great boss is to first set goals that are in reach for your employees. Be clear in your communication. You should know your team's strengths and areas for growth. Build your team in a way where everyone can learn and acknowledge each other's strong points.

2. Mentor your way to success

A good boss can coach an employee to develop skills, but a great boss helps to turn skills into good behavior. Become a mentor, coach or trainer to your employees

3. Stay On Top

Becoming a great boss requires you to be not only the teacher, but the student as well. Read industry newsletters, office reports and trend magazines in the area of your field. Your team will look to your for advice, if you stay ahead of the game with important information.

4. Keep an Open Door

Your staff needs to know that you care about the little things that affect them, and that you're willing to hear them and respond to them as they arise. A great boss knows how to listen & respond quickly.

5. Play Nice

A good boss may nod while walking by, but a great boss should go out of their way to make a more personal attempt of being polite towards their employees. A smile, or a handshake can ease the tension that most employees build up during the workday.

6. Show Appreciation

There is nothing better than receiving appreciation for the smallest of things. For example, when you are running late to the meeting or a presentation and your team is not knocking you for it, then show some gratitude towards them. Positive feedback helps to build more positive long-lasting habits.

7. Positive Affirmation

All employees make mistakes, when the only feedback a boss gives is negative it can lead to the employee not feeling adequate. When they do things right, make it a point to tell them, and give praise for a job well done.

8. Equality

You probably get along with some people better than others, but that doesn't mean you can't treat everyone equal. Show your employees that you care. Learn something about their life, and treat everyone with kindness and respect. Without them, you wouldn't be a boss, great or otherwise.

9. Be friendly even if you're not friends

Just because you're the boss doesn't mean all of your employees will like you. Some people are automatically going disagree with everything you say. Treat all of your employees with the same kindness and respect,

10. Be open to constructive criticism

If you are a boss, I am sure being criticized is not one of the best things about the job. However, by allowing your employees to give you feedback is a great opportunity to develop into the character of a great boss. Don't be too prideful.

You're already a "good" boss; you've heard them say it. But, to be a great boss, you will have to step up your game and be great on purpose at times. These 10 tips will transform you from good to great in no time!