5 of 13

Write now Article Tools

There is no doubt that being the boss in any organization confers on you an aura of respect and authority. The boss is the top dog and therefore, by virtue of his position, he calls the shots. However, it has to be noted here that there is a clear distinction between exercising your authority and intimidating your subordinates. A boss that knows his onions should therefore aim to exercise his authority without degenerating into being a terror to those that work under him.

Let's face it, there really isn't any need for a boss to be intimidating. There is enough stress and tension in the average place of work without the added inconvenience of an intimidating boss.

In my experience, an intimidating boss is usually an incompetent boss. He is too small for the shoes he wears. He therefore has to use some aggressive behavior to cover up his insecurities.

Having said this, I insist that a boss can get the job done by being smart. The duty of a boss is to supervise his workers. He ensures that everybody is doing his job the right way. More to the point, the boss is the man that gets the most (within reason) from his workers.

If this is true, then it follows that the smart boss should be able to apply the following tried and tested methods.

1. Communication:

Your workers are not magicians. They simply won't know what is in your mind unless you communicate with them effectively. The boss should have very good communication skills both verbal and written. When the message is put across clearly to the workers, the job will be done much more easily.

2. Be Civil:

Being a boss does not mean you should be rude as well. Address your workers politely and they will respect you more and do a better job for you.

3. Keep your Distance:

Of course, you are the boss! So, don't get too close to your workers. Keep a dignified distance and avoid getting too intimate with your workers.

4. Lead by Example:

Don't underestimate your workers. They are much smarter than you think they are and they see a lot of things. If you want to be a good boss, lead by example, work hard and go the extra mile. Your subordinates will then have no choice but to follow your example.

5. Discipline Offenders and Defaulters:

This is one of your most important responsibilities. Erring workers must be sanctioned as a deterrent to others. Again, be very tactful here. Don't shout and scream at your subordinates. Simply call the culprit into your office and give him a firm warming or, better still, give him a query.

Finally it is your duty to boss your subordinates. You have to find a way of doing this without being a monster. Intimidating your workers just isn't cool.

Learn more about this author, Emmanuel Osondu.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Why bosses don't need to be intimidating?
We want to hear your view. Write now!