I have worked for several bosses. The best one ensured that he knew what your rights were, and that you received them. He was fair and treated us without bias or favour. He was approachable and protected us from outside criticism. If he felt you had done something wrong he would tell you in private, and in such a way that you felt you had been advised by a wise elder - not chewed out. As a result we felt valued and were loyal. Sadly my current boss is almost the exact opposite.
I like to be treated fairly and given credit where credit is due, I expect feedback regarding my performance. If I need to imptove, I expect guidance to steer me in the right direction. I also want to know what is expected of me and what I can expect of my manager.
Strong leadership is certainly a plus, but my work ethic demands that I do the best I can in any situation. A good manager may motivate me to work harder, but I would never do less than I am capable of doing.
Definitely would want a list of expectations from my boss. A boss that can has good leadership qualities and can motivate employees is critical because it takes different methods to motivate all types of people. A boss that is strict but knows when to show compassion is another trait I would look for in a supervisor. And, a boss that earns the respect of his/her employees is so important. I've worked for many bosses but the one I the remember most is the one that said "I'm wrong" and wasn't afraid to admit it. He earned all of our respect!
A boss who will interact with his staff and invite comment on improving the business. As a staff nurse, I have had good ideas that have improved patient care from all levels of staff from the cleaning staff to the medical staff and of course the most important element, the patients themselves. If the staff are made to feel a connection with the manager it will improve any service.
I've never been the kind of employee that wants to be "best friends" with the boss. I am, however, a very hard worker, know my job very well, have integrity and passion for my job. I like to be treated with respect and honesty. Currently, I have a female boss that is more into where you bought your shoes or how much you come into her office to chit chat (i.e. Kiss behind). She lacks professionalism and talks about other employees behind their backs. She makes my life a living hell because she would perfer to have her employees be "ready-made" best friends, that an employee that is loyal. This is the first female boss I've ever had and I feel she gives other female bosses a bad name.
