Are you a good boss?

Should you be friends with your juniors? Usually, it's one of the many questions bothering people who lead a team. Here are a few pointers to help you handle the situation

There's nothing wrong in being friends with your team members. But then, it also leads them to see you as a friend and not as a senior. How do you maintain the balance between being popular and yet having enough hold on your team members?

Follow the rules you make

If you set a certain time for a meeting, ensure that you get there on time. If you are a repeat offender, others will take your instructions with a pinch of salt. Also, if you don't follow the rules you set, you will find it difficult to point out when others flout them.

Praise colleagues in front of others

Learn to praise people when you are surrounded by your team. Criticising someone will not make you popular with the others. Most people will discuss you behind your back. Ensure to praise your team members in public.

No cuss words please

While most of us often use swear words around our friends, it's not acceptable to do so in front of your colleagues or team members. If you are a leader, your team members will follow your lead and use foul language at work. This may not go down well with the management of your organisation.

Set a dress code for your team

Your workplace might not be the place to make a fashion statement, but dressing smartly will create an instant impression on those who deal with you on a daily basis. It will also set a certain dress code at your work place.

Know your team members' names

Don't think that it isn't important to know the people on your team as long as you get the work done. It's necessary to acknowledge and appreciate those who work for you. Address people individually and acknowledge their work to make them realise that their presence on the team makes a difference to you.

Accept your mistakes

We all make mistakes and it's absolutely alright to accept this fact. Also, forgive your team members for their mistakes after bringing it to their notice. Asking for help will not make you less competent.

Be there for your team

Even if you have a hectic schedule ahead, motivate your team to give their best. Also, make sure that you are present with your team when they face long working hours and stressful deadlines. if you have women on your team, ensure that they have some means to get home when they are working late.