Tips to be a tough boss without being a bully

You don’t want to be a pushover, but you also don’t want to create a toxic work environment where your employees feel anxious every time you walk into the office. Finding the right balance between supportive and assertive is key for a successful leader and mentor while creating a healthy and happy work culture. ICHAF Training Institute suggest trying out these three tips to help you improve your tough management style:

Re-evaluate and reshuffle

Instead of giving staff members a harsh warning, because they are not performing in their current role, consider the possibility that they are perhaps in the wrong role. Re-evaluate their strengths and move them to a project where those strengths are needed and where they can shine. Find out what your employee’s strengths are, hone in on those skills and give them the tools and the opportunity to make them work for you.

No need for a public dressing down

Never yell at your staff in front of others. Only bullies have public outbursts in an attempt to affirm their authority while demotivating and humiliating their victim in front of their colleagues or peers. Be a mentor and try to understand what happened and find a way to fix the problem. If staff feel you’ve got their backs, they will feel more confident to own up to a mistake and be honest with you. 

Bad news travels fast

If you are a tough boss with a low staff turnover, word will spread that you are doing a good job and management will be happy with your department’s performance. If, however, word spreads that you are a bully and the staff turnover is high, your reputation will be tainted.