12 Personality Traits of a Great Boss

12 Personality Traits of a Great Boss 

You have probably heard the old saying, people don’t quit their job, they quit their bosses .
Poor leadership can lead to poor performance across the board.
This is why it’s important to make sure that you have great bosses/managers that are leading the pack and making everyone around them better on a daily basis.
Here are the 12 Outstanding Personality Traits Of A Great Boss

1. Think Positive

Understand the power of positive psychology, look at every situation as a learning opportunity.

No matter what the situation or what type of rough waters you and your organization may enter, remember, if you have a great leader that is an optimist, it makes it a lot easier to work.
Believe me, the last thing that you’d like is for someone to constantly be on your case and give you a lot of negative energy.

2. Honesty Is The Best Policy

It’s important to be transparent and honest with employees.
Great bosses possess the leadership skills to appropriately tell people the truth, whether it’s good or bad.
Transparency is a hard thing to find in the old-school, traditional workplace, but it’s a growing trend within forward-thinking companies that believe in the flat hierarchy.
As they have to let everyone know what is going on at all times or else it can damage the synergy.

3. Delegate

It’s really bad for a boss to just hand assignments to people without any order or organization.
What you’ll see from great bosses is that they’ll delegate the work appropriately, as they know their employees’ strengths and weaknesses.
They also resist the urge to micro-manange and give the employees autonomy so they can easily do their task.

4. Communication is the Best Leadership Skill

So many problems in an organization are the result of lack of communication.
A great boss knows when to talk, but more importantly, when to not talk.
They also know how to speak to employees and clear up any sort of problems that might exist within the office.

5. Know How To Inspire

The fact of the matter is that great leaders know how to inspire.
Sometimes, they don’t even know it. However, what makes them a great boss is the fact that when there’s a big moment, they know how to react to it and how to make the people around them react to it.
If there’s a high pressure situation, the last thing you would want to deal with is someone who would look at it frivolously and not be able to motivate others.

6. Align The Team

Keep the entire team focused, and aligned towards one long term goal.
It’s important to make sure that everyone knows why they are doing certain tasks and what is the result that can come from doing it.
Make sure that your employees are engaged and that they are aligned in terms of knowing the vision and goals of the organization.

7. Promote Work Life Balance

This isn’t just one of the traits of a great boss this is also a trait of a great company.
Allowing employees to have balance between their work and their life allows them to be at peace and it lets them know that they’re more than just an employee, but a valuable person within their company.

8. Give Credit Where It’s Due

We know a thing or two about employee recognition over here.
As a leader, it’s really important to make sure that employees are getting the respect that they deserve.
So make sure to give out credit when it’s due and make sure to recognize employees.
Remember, a pat on the back goes a long way.

9. Encourage Growth

Growth can come in many ways.
We often talk about failing fast within our posts and guest posts.
The reason why is because it encourages growth and it ensures employees that they have the ability to learn from mistakes, rather than fear making them.

10. Praise Your Employees!

Show your appreciation, even for the small things that your employees do.

A little praise can go a long way. Don’t hesitate to give them shout outs and let them know that they’re doing the right thing.
The ability to effectively praise people is the ultimate leadership skill and it will help the employees around you grow better and more confidently.

11. Mentor

If you’d like to be a great boss a major part of your skill set will have to be a mentor.

Being someone’s doesn’t have anything to with age, experience, or even their position.
If you’re able to help them excel at something, your duty is to lead them in the right direction and make sure that they’re as good as you, and if possible, better!

12. Be Absolutely Fair

Sure, sometimes a manager/boss will be a lot closer with a group of people.
However, a great boss respects the workplace and knows that everyone needs to be treated fairly and equally.
Don’t make the workplace an ogliarchy and make sure that it’s a fair game for anyone to leave a big imprint within the company.

What Do You Think Of The 12 Traits Of A Great Boss?

Are there any other traits or leadership skills that we might’ve missed or you find could be added on?

ΠΗΓΗ: officevibe

How To Network Like A Pro

How To Network Like A Pro

 

Learning how to network effectively is one of the most powerful tools an individual can use to advance their personal and professional life.
This skill can help you land your dream job, score a promotion, and become close with the leaders in your industry.
We spoke to networking guru Dr. Ivan Misner, Founder and Chairman of Business Network International, and Matthew Rothenberg, Editor-in-Chief of career content at TheLadders, about the secrets to networking effectively.
What does the best strategy for networking boil down to? Building real relationships, actively maintaining them, and giving as much as you take.
Of course, there's a lot more to it than just those details...

Why is networking important?

It's simple: knowing the right people can get you places that you might not reach otherwise.
Of all the areas where networking can help you, the most important are probably getting new business, finding a job, and having relationships with key people who can help you out in ways you can't predict yet.
Networking opens up new opportunities for you, TheLadders.com's Rothenberg says. Particularly in the case of job-hunting especially in this extremely competitive market, networking can be the difference between scoring a job and not.
Ultimately, it's all about the relationships: the ones you can build through networking are invaluable. As Misner puts it, "when times are tough, a client will leave you, but a friend won't."

How to get started: practice, practice, practice

If you've never done it before, networking can be an intimidating endeavor.
According to Rothenberg, the only way to become an expert networker is to "practice practice practice. The more you do it, the better you get."
To get started, Business Network International's Misner suggests first sitting down with a guidebook (we list several good ones at the end of this feature) and learning the basics.
You should also participate in a networking group; Misner breaks them down into 4 types:

1. Casual contact networks (networking events or industry mixers)
2. Knowledge networks (professional associations)
3. Strong contact networks (groups that meet frequently specifically to build professional relationships, like those run by BNI)
4. Online networks (professional social media services, such as LinkedIn)

If possible, you should be active in one of each.

1. Be visible

You won't be able to network if you're not visible. If people don't know who you are, you can't start building those important relationships.
Many small business owners are so focused on the day-to-day of their business that they forget about actively networking, Misner comments.
"Be visible. Networking is a contact sport! You have to get out and connect with people," he says.

 

 

2. Build solid relationships

"Trust is key to networking," says Misner.
You have to cultivate real, deep relationships with your contacts before you can ask them for a favor or expect them to send you business.
"It takes time for people to have confidence in you and have a relationship with you -- you have to invest in them," he continues.
One of Misner's favorite acronyms is "VCP," which stands for:
Visibility: "They know who you are and what you do."
Credibility: "They know who you are and what you do, and they know that you're good at it.
Profitability: "They trust you enough that they're willing to do business with you."
How do you develop these networking relationships? You approach your professional contacts as you would any other relationship, Misner says. "You have to sit down and learn about the individual."
Try connecting with them on a level other than business -- people bond over overlapping areas of interest, no matter what they are.
When you start to care about one another, you've developed a solid professional contact.

3. Diversify

Having a diverse network is just as important as having a large network. 
If you only know people who are like you -- i.e. in your industry or social group -- "your network becomes insular," says Misner.
But when your network is diverse, you're more likely to know "connectors," or those who can put you in touch with people you never would have met otherwise. And those people will be able to help you in different, better ways.

4. Maintain

In an interview with Inc. magazine, networking guru Keith Ferrazzi says, "Every free moment is a chance to E-mail or call someone." According to the profile, "He makes hundreds of phone calls a day....He sends E-mail constantly. He remembers birthdays and makes a special point of reaching people when they have one."
Your network will be useless if you don't maintain it -- that means constantly reaching out.
For beginners, Misner suggests making a game plan with a "scorecard" of networking points. Whenever you actively make an effort to reach out to a contact, you get a point.
Sending a thank-you note, making a phone call, arranging a meeting, sending an article of interest to someone, displaying someone else's goods in your store, putting someone else's link up on your Facebook... all of these count as networking, and you should be doing these as often as you can.
"Count those touchpoints! How many times are you reaching out?" Misner asks. "With the technology we have today, there is no excuse not to stay in touch."

5.Give back as much as you can

Giving is a crucial element of networking that people often forget.
According to the Inc. profile of Ferrazzi, "Successful networking is never about simply getting what you want. It's about getting what you want and making sure that people who are important to you get what they want, too."
Rothenberg recognizes that "it's easy to drop off when you're not actively in need of something." But you need to remember that networking is a perpetual give-and-take.
He continues, "You want to be the one people go to when they need something. That means suggesting somebody else for a job when you can, putting them in touch with an acquaintance they should know... You have to give, give, give."

Reaching out to a well-developed contact should come naturally

Building your network is just one part of networking; what happens when you need a favor?
Reaching out to a contact is often the aspect of networking that makes people most uncomfortable. But the exchange shouldn't be awkward.
If you've developed the relationship well, that favor will come naturally.
Rothenberg suggests asking what they need first, or doing a favor for them unprompted, before you ask for one.  
Also, he advises that "people hate to say 'no.' If you put them in a position where they can say 'yes,' they'll be happy to do so." This could mean that, instead of asking straight out for a job, you see if they'd be willing to write you a recommendation -- a much more likely request.
Most importantly, before reaching out to someone, Misner warns that you should always determine where you are in the relationship. "It would not be a good idea to e-mail your entire network [asking for a favor] -- that's called 'spamming.'" You have to behave appropriately and smartly depending on how close you are.
What if there's someone you don't know, but want to know? Rothenberg suggests that you "find that mutual connection. Even if it's a weak tie with someone, it works."
Or attend industry events, and don't feel bad about positioning yourself to meet that person you want to know.
And always remind yourself that you're focusing on building a relationship, not trying to get something out of them.

If you lose touch, don't hesitate to rekindle the relationship

If you've lost touch with a contact that you're wishing you could get in touch with now, you're not out of luck.
While you should never just call them out of the blue and ask for a favor -- "that would be very detrimental, in most cases!" Misner warns -- you shouldn't feel awkward about getting in touch.
"Send an email, or call them, and say you want to rekindle the relationship," says Misner.
The overall best way to handle it? Don't lose touch in the first place. Always be working at maintaining your network!

What if you're shy?

The thought of networking is most intimidating for people who are shy. Try to remember that you're really building relationships, not trying to get something out of someone.
Rothenberg suggests planning three interesting talking points to bring with you to a conversation with a contact. Make them things that you'll be excited to talk about and you know will interest them, too.
And, of course, practice will make you more comfortable, as well. "Make networking a natural part of your daily life," he adds.

Never, ever..

Misner's cardinal rule of networking: "Never, ever ask for anything from someone you've just met, who you don't have any relationship with."
"Networking goes bad when a complete stranger says 'let's do business together, hook me up, etc.... That's not networking, that's direct selling."
Above all, Misner repeats that networking isn't about passing out your business cards or asking people you don't know well for favors. "'Coin-operated networking' is bad for business. It doesn't work in the long-run."

Key takeaways

The key to successful networking is to remember that you're working on building real, deep relationships with your professional contacts.
Your network won't do you any good if it's full of lots of people who you don't know very well; cultivating both the depth and width of your network is extremely important.
"Networking is more about farming than it is about hunting," says Misner. "It's not just about who you know -- it's about how well you know them."

ΠΗΓΗ: Business Insider

22 Ways To Network Like A Pro

22 Ways To Network Like A Pro

In the business world, we need to constantly focus on expanding our network of contacts. Networking in business is not always about moving up the corporate ladder, although that is an important byproduct. It's about obtaining information and making contacts that could help you in your day-to-day business life. It's an essential tool in your professional life, even if you're not looking for a new job.

Networking is also about passing it on; helping others as they, too, strive to get ahead in the business world.
It seems like networking events are popping up in every major city these days, but savvy businessmen already know that there's an opportunity to network anywhere and everywhere. The following tips can be applied to any type of setting including a cocktail party, a conference or a trade show — you name it. You never know who you'll meet at your girlfriend's son's Little League game.
Here are some tips to improve your networking skills.

be prepared

1- Always carry business cards

Make sure you have business cards with you at all times. Keep your cards in your left pocket, because this allows you to reach for them as you're shaking hands. Be sure to keep the cards that you collect in your right pocket. It is very unprofessional to fumble through a pile of cards trying to find one of your own.

2- Carry a nice pen

Be sure to have a good quality pen in case you need to write anything in front of your new contact. A nice pen has been known to garner an important person's direct phone number or personal e-mail address.

3- Always look your best

Appearances count for a lot. Shave and groom yourself. Always expect to see someone important. No matter how badly you need something to complete a home improvement project, do not run out to the hardware store in your torn, paint-covered sweatpants.

4- Have your elevator pitch ready

Know who you are, and be comfortable describing yourself. "I'm Jack Brown of XYZ Consulting. I'm a corporate trainer and my focus is on increasing productivity and performance by inspiring employees to enjoy serving customers." Or "I'm Charlie Sanderson and I lead the I.T. team at ABC Industries. We create business solutions for small- and medium-sized companies." Be sure to introduce yourself in a confident and calm manner. You want others to ask you questions and you want to be remembered.

Do you have interesting conversation starters?

5- Have a plan

Are you seeking advice or requesting a referral? Whatever the case, communicate it clearly. Tell your new contact that you'd like 20 minutes of his time to discuss whatever it is you'd like to discuss — be specific. Ask how his schedule looks next week. If you leave it open with a "Let's do lunch," you may wait a long time to meet with your new contact.

6- Think of interesting conversation starters

Stay up to date on world and local news and pay attention to current affairs and new business ideas. This way, once you meet your contact, describe who you are and obtain a business card, you will have things to talk about. It is wise to avoid discussing politics.

make the contact

7- Help others

At a social or business function, seek out a guest standing on the sidelines and introduce yourself. If he's not the outgoing type, he will probably be grateful and remember you. Together you might even work the room, with you taking the lead by introducing him to others.

8- Pick your targets

Approach people who will likely want to talk to you and be sure to do it at the right time and place — people might not want to listen to you when they're having dinner at a restaurant on a Friday night. Even at a designated networking function, if two men are involved in a deep conversation, keep your distance until a natural break occurs.

9- Introduce yourself

Give your name (and that of your company, if you represent one) and repeat the other person's name so you'll remember it. Shake hands. Make eye contact. If you must wear a nametag at a social or business function, place it on your right lapel, as the eye is automatically drawn there while shaking hands, and this will help a contact remember your name.

10- Have a question ready

Approach with a question or lead-in that expresses interest, such as, "Aren't you John Stanfield from ABC Technologies?"; "Weren't you part of the team of developers for that new project?" or "I'm so glad I got the opportunity to meet someone from the 321 Company." Being interested in them will make them interested in you.

11- Be clear

Whether you're promoting yourself or your company, you want to do it right. If you're presenting an idea or product, adjust your pitch to the person you are speaking with. Focus on their particular interests and needs, and how what you want to do will benefit them, rather than just extolling the quality of the product or service.

12- Show interest

Show an interest in your new contact, without overdoing it. When you get people to talk about themselves and you listen intently and actively, you will be remembered as a fascinating conversationalist, even if you say very little.

Do you know how to leave on a high note?

13- Leave on a high note

Know when to end a conversation. Excuse yourself from the conversation before it begins to die down. Adopt the show business motto: "Always leave 'em wanting more."

14- Make notes

Use the back of business cards you collect to jot down notes about your new contact. Write down where and when you met, a project you discussed or an interesting tidbit he shared, such as where he was about to go on vacation. If he described a special hobby or interest, write it down as it might offer you a great lead-in to contact him again.

15- Rate yourself

Assess yourself afterward. Be honest. Do you feel that you talked too much or too little? Do you need to develop some more anecdotes or change your elevator pitch? Successful networking takes both planning and practice.

be professional

16- Treat everyone with respect

Treat everyone well. Never discount someone as unimportant. In some companies, the receptionist is asked her opinion of how a salesperson treated her. You want to be identified as respectful and polite at all times, and by everyone.

17- Don't be pushy

Listen for opportunities in which you can interject with a factual anecdote or two in a conversation — it needs to be something your new networking contact can relate to. "When I went to London last year to design and implement the new marketing program, I had an opportunity to play tourist..." or "That reminds me of the teamwork involved when our department developed a product that saved the company over half a million dollars per year."

Don't brag. Your goal is not to derail the conversation but to participate in it, while offering some memorable information about yourself that will be of interest to your new contact.

18- Give your full attention

While engaging in a conversation with a contact, avoid looking over their shoulder to scan the room. This is a sure-fire way to annoy your contact and be branded as insincere or rude. At your next business or social function, take a moment to watch the body language and disinterested eye movement of people in the room. If you can see it, as a casual observer, you can be sure that the people they are talking to are feeling disrespected.

19- Be entertaining

Use humor wisely. Ensure that your jokes are tasteful, inoffensive and actually funny, otherwise avoid telling them. You have an image to uphold and it can be ruined in a split second via a misguided attempt at humor.

Keep your hands to yourself...

20- Don't try to impress women

Never hit on a woman at a networking function. Never. Even if you're convinced that she's your soulmate, do not ask her out. If she wants to pursue you at a later date, that's great, but keep it on a business level until she clearly makes the move. You never know how powerful she is, either by position or association.

follow through

21- Keep in touch

Maintain contact with your network. E-mail or call them from time to time just to touch base. You can forward them articles which may be of interest because of their line of work, or congratulate your contact (or his company) about some positive news you've heard.

Make a habit of following up; strive to keep in touch with your contacts on a regular basis.
If you're in a job search, ask your networking contacts for names of friends in other departments or companies. When you're hiring, ask people on your networking list if they know of any suitable candidates. It is a good idea to keep a copy of your contact list at home, just in case of unexpected job loss or a need for information or assistance on weekends.

22- Build new relationships

Strive to build relationships. You never know when you might need information or assistance from your network of friends, colleagues and business acquaintances.

people will remember you

Recognize all the opportunities you have to increase your network of contacts. You will earn new customers, learn new business ideas, obtain sales leads, and make new friends. If you are prepared and open to actively network on any occasion, you will be at ease in every setting.

Apply your newfound networking skills and you will uncover new self-confidence and improve your business image. Business success and personal satisfaction will follow.

ΠΗΓΗ: www.networkingforprofessionals.com