Happy Boss Day – a great day to thank bosses everywhere. And a great day to remind ourselves of the duty we have as bosses to get better at it. One great way to do that is to observe other bosses.
Here are 10 stories about inspirational bosses – my absolute favorites from the archives.
I highly doubt that these bosses are (or were) inspirational every minute of every day. More likely it occurred (or occurs) in bits and bites. And it seems to be about…well…read these stories and see what you think. And then – will you add a story or two about bosses you’ve admired?
1. Ray Austin – former manager of Western Auto (audio by Mick Mixon)
It’s a message all bosses need to hear. Read more in Kudos to Ray Austin
2. Chancellor William Aycock – Chancellor at Carolina from 1957-1964
Chancellor Aycock commanded great respect. Find out how in: Kudos to Chancellor Bill Aycock
3. Basnight Sons & Daughter –Owners of S.H. Basnight & Sons
SH Basnight & Sons was founded 87 years ago by Stein Basnight and is now run by two of his grandchildren, Jesse Basnight Jr and Terry Hamlet. Their secrets to success? Eight great ones are revealed in Basnight Family Secrets. Secrets 5-8 in particular are outstanding reminders for bosses everywhere.
4. Chris Derby – Owner of two UPS Stores
A visit to one of Chris’ stores made me curious. What were his secrets to success? Secrets of Success from UPS Stores reveals secrets shared by Chris and his team. And demonstrates one of the most important reminders for bosses everywhere.
5. Mac Fitch – Owner of Fitch Lumber Company
Fitch Lumber Company is 104 years old, the oldest business in town. Freddy Foust has worked there for 27 of those years. When asked why he has stayed at Fitch for 27 years, Freddy’s immediate answer was “Mac Fitch”.
Hmm – sounds like a good boss to study. Read more in Fitch Family Secrets.
6. Joe Hakan– Architect for the Dean Smith Center(audio by Joy Hakan)
Most bosses think they make their expectations clear. Most people reporting to them disagree. And this disconnect causes much discord.
In Clear Expectations at the Dean Dome, hear how Joe Hakan cut off potential discord by making expectations clear from the start.
7. Bob McAllister – radio station manager
Bob McAllister taught Mick Mixon the difference between good and great way before the book was written. Read more in Kudos to Bob McAllister.
8. Chancellor Carlyle Sitterson – Chancellor at Carolina from 1966-1972
Being a good boss during peaceful times is hard enough.
Even in tumultuous times, Chancellor Sitterson got kudos for being a good boss.
9. Wilma at Burger King – Winston-Salem, NC
10. Dad and his supervisor at the City of Winston-Salem
Kudos to both for having the guts to clear up crossed roles and responsibilities – much better for both of them – and the workers too. Read more in Kudos to Dad and his supervisor.
BONUS: When we’re talking about bosses, we have to talk about the boss himself!!
Questions for you:
- What characteristics are demonstrated in these stories?
- Are any of these part of your management style?
Would love to hear your stories about great bosses!
Jan is a coach, teacher, speaker and author who is passionate about performance management and corporate culture.
Her coaching specialty is working with women in leadership to take charge more effectively, make things happen and inspire others to do the same.
Take a look at her new EEEK-Book below. More about Jan
For a unique resource for building leaders and teams, check out this new EEEK-Book!
*Note: 10 by 10 on Tuesday (also know as a Quick List) is a weekly feature is for managers who don’t have time or don’t want to make time to read lengthy articles or even short paragraphs. Here you will find 10 tips or questions or steps or ways to Get 2 Goal or Be a Better Manager, etc). And it will be posted by 10 (AM – EST) on Tuesdays. Here’s our collection of Quick Lists to date.
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2012 
