There’s a famous quote that says:
“People leave managers, not companies.”
But what makes people want to leave a manager in the first place? And if you’re leading a team, what qualities can make you a better boss?
In 2008, Google set out to answer these questions in an operation code-named: Project Oxygen.
Here are the ten signs of a great boss, according to Google…and some tips on how you can develop them.
Good managers don’t solve every problem for their team.
Instead, they use problems as teaching moments. They guide, share insights, and let team members gain valuable experience along the way.
A good team lead gives people freedom: freedom to explore new ideas, to experiment, to develop their own working style.
And they make sure people have the tools and flexibility they need to do their jobs.
Great managers build trust and psychological safety.
That’s a fancy way of saying teammates feel safe to take risks, admit a mistake, ask a question, or offer a new idea.
The best managers make those around them better. They realize what their teams are capable of, then do their best to help them realize their potential.
Great managers:
Great managers are invested in team members as people and provide career path options, realizing not everyone wants to follow the same road.
Then, they help their people reach their goals.
Great managers know where they’re going…and they make sure the whole team knows, too.
They communicate “scope”: what’s needed to get a job done, and what’s expected of each team member.
They understand the work they oversee, and take time to get familiar with the challenges of their team. This earns them respect.
They see the big picture, and work for the good of the company as a whole.
They set the example, make tough decisions, and make sure everyone understands the reasons behind those decisions. Then, they commit to following through.
As Google CEO Sundar Pichai put it: “Leadership is decision making. Leadership is moving things forward.”
Of course, identifying what makes a great boss is only the first part. But if you can find and train managers in your company to do these ten things, you’ll help your people reach their full potential.
In his NBA Finals post game comments, Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla gives a case study in how to build an emotionally intelligent culture.
