In the world of business, we all report to someone. A Supervisor, Manager, Director, CEO. Even the head of the business has responsibilities to the company itself. These leaders look for certain qualities in their employees that will assist in the growth and success of the business, leadership being paramount. People they can trust to guide or direct a group to the desired outcome is essential. As an employee you should strive to demonstrate this attribute in your daily tasks and projects in the workplace, not only to benefit the company but to ensure your growth as a professional as well. Here are three things your boss wants to see:
1. You never bring up a problem without first thinking through a possible solution.
Try to brainstorm and think outside the box. Step back and look at the problem with a clear head. Take a few minutes, or even a day to think about the problem (if you have the luxury of time) and consider any and all options. Even if these ideas seem far-fetched… you never know what might spark a valuable idea. Look at the problem from a view other than your own. If this is challenging, ask others who are not involved in or close to the problem for their thoughts. A fresh perspective is often a good place to start and then you can consider how some small improvements or changes could make a huge difference.
2. You get the big picture.
Being detailed is necessary, but you can easily get so lost in the specifics that you forget why you are doing something in the first place. For some, being organized is their key to success, but for others it’s a hindrance to creativity. No matter your perspective, you need to have a solid grasp on not only the process for doing something, but also the purpose. The process should always lead you to the purpose. Begin with the end in mind. What is the goal? What do you need to accomplish it? How do you acquire those items?
For example, the goal of a new marketing campaign is not to create more marketing tools, it is to generate leads and/or awareness. Don’t get so lost in the creative writing, packaging and promotions that you forget why you’re doing it in the first place. Sometimes simpler is better as long as the point comes across and is clear.
3. You earn respect by giving respect.
Respect people at all levels of the organization. You never know when you may need to call on someone for guidance, support or help. At my level of the organization I work for, I’m often tasked with developing programs/projects that include leading a team of individuals to complete independent tasks in order to come together with one great end result. This may include people outside of my leadership, department or even the organization. Think about the value each person provides to this and any future projects, or the value they’ve already proven in the past and make sure that you respect their thoughts, ideas and recommendations. Even if the idea is one that you are sure will not work, addressing the idea with a positive response will always prove more effective than dismissing it. If you shut people down, they will stop providing input. And you never know who might have the next great idea.
