# Five Often Overlooked Actions of Exceptional Bosses
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Chapter 1: The Silent Support of Great Leaders
How frequently do you express genuine gratitude to your supervisor? I mean heartfelt thanks for their role in your personal and professional growth. Surprisingly, many people neglect to do this—not out of unkindness, but simply because they may not recognize the extent of their boss's contributions. Often, they remain unaware because no one has highlighted these efforts.
Here are five understated actions that can make a substantial impact:
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Section 1.1: Advocating Behind the Scenes
Key decisions within any organization are usually made far removed from your day-to-day responsibilities by higher-ups. Some of these choices directly affect you, and unfortunately, you have no say in them. Regardless of your performance, this is a reality. In these situations, you depend on your boss to champion your cause.
A commendable supervisor will advocate for your strengths, contextualize any shortcomings as part of your learning journey, and justify any setbacks as opportunities for growth. They won’t seek acknowledgment or gratitude; they simply act because it’s deserved and necessary.
Section 1.2: Empowering Through Guidance
It takes courage to foster the development of others, especially when you’re in a leadership role. Your reputation is on the line, and any setbacks reflect on you. While some bosses might opt to handle tasks themselves or have employees shadow others as a safer approach, this strategy misses the essence of true mentorship.
Effective leaders focus on empowering their team through experiential learning. They provide gentle nudges, encourage self-assessment, and cultivate a mindset geared toward growth. Over time, small pieces of constructive feedback accumulate, leading to significant development. They do this not for praise, but because it’s simply part of being a great leader.
The first video titled "5 Beliefs of Better Bosses - with Joe Mull, CSP" discusses the fundamental beliefs that shape effective leadership and how these beliefs influence team dynamics.
Section 1.3: Shifting the Spotlight
Receiving recognition feels rewarding, and it’s easy to feel entitled to credit for achievements. However, many leaders take the credit for their team’s accomplishments, which can create a toxic environment. If you’re fortunate enough to have a boss who highlights your contributions, consider yourself lucky.
This type of leader possesses a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-awareness, qualities that are not innate to everyone. The ability to deflect praise and focus on the team’s successes is a rare and admirable trait.
Chapter 2: The Humble Servant Leader
The second video titled "3 Things Great Bosses Say" offers insights into the key phrases and attitudes that exemplary leaders embody, emphasizing the importance of communication in effective management.
Section 2.1: Prioritizing Team Over Self
Self-serving leaders can demoralize a team and stifle motivation. When the leader prioritizes their own needs over the group’s, it alters the team’s dynamics. Motivating a team can plummet, leading to a decline in both productivity and quality.
It takes immense courage for a leader to prioritize their team’s well-being and success over their own. Such selflessness is not to be taken for granted, as it requires balancing personal needs with team goals.
Section 2.2: Taking Responsibility
No one enjoys being blamed for another’s mistakes, yet a significant part of a boss’s role involves absorbing the impact of team failures. This is part of the job; after all, accountability falls on the leader.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that team members are not always operating at their best. A leader who continuously shields their team from criticism demonstrates exceptional emotional intelligence and compassion. They understand that managing individuals requires treating each person as unique and providing support when it’s needed.
As the saying goes, "Praise publicly, criticize privately." The fact that they do this without seeking acknowledgment is quite commendable, especially when it's often unearned.
Takeaway
If you step into a managerial role, be prepared for a reality check. While people may readily point out your errors, the good you do often goes unnoticed. If you require constant affirmation to stay motivated, consider remaining in a non-leadership position for your own peace of mind.
Managing a team or organization can be both challenging and fulfilling, leading to significant personal growth. Just remember not to expect recognition for every effort you put forth. If you’re not in a leadership position, take a moment this week to express gratitude to your boss for something you usually overlook. It might mean more to them than you realize.
For further exploration of leadership topics, consider these resources:
- Why Most People Aren't Cut Out to Be Leaders
- Essential Skills for Aspiring Leaders
- Identifying Toxic Leadership Traits