I consider my ability to arouse enthusiasm among men the greatest asset I possess. The way to develop the best that is in a man by appreciation and encouragement. There is nothing else that so kills the ambitions of a person as criticism from superiors. I never criticize anyone.
--CHARLES M. SCHWAB-
I’ve worked for at least sixteen real bosses over my career. Just three invested any significant time in me.
Don’t get me wrong, as an employee, my expectation is low when it comes to training and development - most bosses are busy and just needed me to do things for them. I always expected to put in the work to train myself, for better or worse. And I found a way to like almost every boss I had. But those three who poured into me will always be the example for me of how I want to treat my team.
If you have ever worked for a great boss, you understand the level of inspiration and camaraderie that can develop between you. When you reach a state of flow where you can anticipate and solve problems before they arise, and they trust you with their most complex issues. It’s one of the most satisfying, fulfilling experiences humanly possible.
So what should you look for next time you have the chance to choose a boss?
The Holy Grail of Bosses:
1. Sees your potential far down the road, even before you can
2. Invests in you at work and personally without strings attached
3. Tells you the truth and holds you accountable so you can learn from your mistakes before they become career killers
4. Behaves as an example, and also inspires by explaining the why behind the what
5. Helps you reach the highest level you can attain, even if it’s not on their team and even if it means you surpass them
A great boss inspires good employees to become one in a million. This type of leader won’t be remembered just as a boss, but will be loved and respected as a mentor and a friend.
If you find this person, do whatever it takes to work for them! But there is just one thing...what would make them want to hire you?
The truth is, this type of boss is one in one hundred, maybe one in a thousand. Not just a boss, they are a mentor and a leader. But their role usually means they have limited time. So how do you position yourself so it is worth their time to invest in you?
Short answer? Become one in a million: the Holy Grail of employees.
The Holy Grail of Employees:
1. Works hard to always be prepared, investing their own time outside of work hours if necessary to learn
2. Tells the truth respectfully, regardless of their personal cost
3. Ignores politics at the office or with clients
4. Keeps their personal drama separate from work and is positive but not fake
5. Supports their leader despite faults, and will not undercut boss to leadership, but will confront them personally if necessary
A good boss who has an employee like this will do everything in their power to cause them to succeed. They will provide letters of recommendation, professional references, networking referrals, opportunities for promotion, bonuses, raises, and ultimately a career long friendship.
Believe it or not, I have been blessed with several of these employees. I'm humbled that they have worked with me. They have made me better in every way, especially in showing me how to be a better leader.
If you follow the five rules to become a one in a million, Holy Grail employee, you may not be rewarded in the short term. But taking the hard road is worth it in the long run. Short term pain for long term gain!
In order to find a great boss, or a great team, become a great employee, and a true team member. Start wherever you are, become a 1 in a million employee, and find your Holy Grail boss!
p.s. I’ve often failed to be a great, or even a good boss. I’ve missed the mark on every single item on my list of how to be a good employee at one time or another. I’m trying to learn from the greatest people I know, and this is my list for now. I’d love to hear your stories about the best bosses and employees you have had!
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