Bosses

This book shines a light on an under-reported issue-senior leadership neglect in preparing the bosses to whom they delegate the task of managing the organization's people. Some funny, some sad and some inspirational true stories of worker experiences clearly reveal the impact of management behavior on individual and team engagement. Here you will meet a menagerie of bad and ugly bosses. They include the manager who forbids his workers to wear cotton pants; the boss who turns up the heat to punish workers for complaining in an overheated bakery; and the prima donna who throws imperfect work products on the floor and requires offending staff members to pick them up. Offsetting them you will encounter exemplary bosses who lead with concern and sensitivity; thoughtful and committed managers who have the wisdom to establish a clear mission, to provide feedback and guidance, and to build an integrated and effective team. Underlying it all is an analysis of why the issue of managerial competence is so urgent in a world where company assets ride the elevators. The workplace and the workforce are changing and evolving ways that demand bosses with essential human relations skills, able to nurture talent and provide a safe environment for fostering innovation and creativity. Finally, you will have the opportunity to see how you measure up to today's leadership demands. By filling out an eye-opening questionnaire, you will be able to rate both your own and your boss' readiness to lead in today's workplace. It's all here to remind us that we can and must do better by paying closer attention to leadership development and its radically changing requirements.