A Soliloquy from the Kernel
From time to time, I've heard (or overheard) my sales associates remark to me (unprompted) that they think I'm a good boss and pleasant to work for (I heard this from my full-timers during my meeting with them last week); on one occasion, one of the veterans in my department remarked that I am a true manager. Hence, my direct subordinates (along with most of the associates in the store) seem to respect me, which has also been observed by other managers and associates.
That said, the truth is, I deserve no credit for this. A long time ago, I learned from one of my role models that, a leader who is with his or her direct subordinates most of the time cannot lead as if he or she is a general with no flaws: a leader's direct subordinates will know his or her strengths and flaws well, so trying to project an image of perfection, along with barking at one's subordinates to fix themselves, will not work; it will alienate them and ultimately result in one's subordinates not taking him or her seriously, which will have a negative impact on the team's success and the success of the organization. Thus, IMO, if I can consistently demonstrate to my team members that I respect them/care about their well-being, am open to their ideas/feedback, and do not consider myself to be any better than them, then this will provide a more constructive work atmosphere that will encourage the associates to bring about organizational success.
