Don’t be a Be a

BOSS LEADER
Just because you’re the manager doesn’t mean you’re a leader! Effective leadership often results in better
team performance and reduced associate turnover. People often do not leave the job; they leave the boss.
This makes the ability to lead a high-performing and engaged team both challenging and rewarding.
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Are your leadership skills building an inspired and engaged team? Take a minute to assess your style.

Demands respect Earns respect

A boss uses their position to demand respect. They A leader earns respect by appreciating team
will think of ways and do whatever it takes to keep strengths and encouraging growth and learning.
power and control.

Quick to criticize Quick to teach

A boss watches everybody. They analyze every
move and notice every mistake. They are quick to
criticize and even threaten when performance
isn’t up to expectations.
Hears
A boss hears team member contributions but
doesn’t act on them. They do not think their team
needs feedback; a boss says, “just get it done.”
A leader looks for ways to improve and grow their
team. They celebrate success and remove barriers
when needed.
Listens
A leader consistently seeks and encourages
input and feedback. They believe a team
member’s idea is as valuable as their own.

Asks
Orders A leader makes sure their team has the right
A boss gives orders to their team – “I need resources and the time to complete a task.
you to finish this.” The team is there to take They assist with prioritizing and find ways to
the order without question. help the team accomplish their tasks.
Project Plan Project Plan
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Hands off Participates

“You figure it out.” A boss makes a decision then
abandons the process. They are uninterested in
how things are going – unless it affects them
directly. The team, as a result, hides problems if
they affects the project outcome.
“How can I help?” A leader allows for autonomy but
knows when they should get involved. The team
surfaces issues quickly to find a best solution. When
needed, a leader rolls up their sleeves to help the
team succeed.

Work first Work and life

“Work comes first.” A boss thinks they should be
able to reach anyone on the team at any time.
They expect a request to be handled immediately,
regardless of the time of day.
Impossible or unclear goals
A boss requires goals to be met at all costs. Goals
change based on the day’s mood, which leads to
team confusion and frustration. The team does not
have a clear sense of team priorities.
A leader encourages a balance between work and
outside of work. They respect the team’s time
outside of work and plan accordingly.
Clear and realistic goals
A leader establishes a shared goal. The team has a
clear line-of-sight into
o how each individual and the
team contributes to organizational goals.