If I were the boss....

Since my first year at varsity the thought of owning my own company or being the director of a company has always been very appealing. Who doesn't want to be the boss? Someone who makes the final decision, someone who is extremely knowledgable and known in industry for being an expert. However there is more to being a boss than just the successes and positives that come along with the title. The most important element is appreciating your employees, they are the assets of the company and ensuring that they are well looked after as in essence your employees are the ones who ensure the ship successfully sails to its destination.

If I were the boss...

3 day weekends would become the norm, as we are all well aware of the fact that a two day weekend really does not do anyone justice. Just as one is getting into the swing of relaxing, you wake up to reality which includes an early Monday morning management meeting. 3 days is sufficient to catch up on rest considering the hectic working schedules we all have, time to spend with family and friends, time for the inevitable catch up for those that are studying and working and time for ME.

Each employee will know exactly what is expected from them, their objectives, deadlines will be clearly marked out to ensure that there are no grey areas. Clarity on what is expected from each employee is essential and regular one on one meetings and team discussions will take place to ensure the employees are happy and fully understand their responsibilities. This will assist with employees taking ownership for their tasks and activities.

If the team meet their targets, on the last friday of each month, incentives such as spa treatments or vouchers will be given in order show appreciation and motivate employees for months to come. Employees can take their birthdays off to celebrate with family and friends. Monthly birthday celebrations would take place at the office to celebrate the birthdays of the past month.

Working hours for the team would be 8am - 4pm giving those with children time to collect the kids from school or make it in time for a gym class, time to make dinner, time for homework or just time to spend with the family before bedtime. Breakfast would be served at the office from 7:30am, as a good breakfast will ensure employees have the energy to start their days on a positive note.

Regular brainstorming and creative sessions would be held by internal and external facilitators to give staff the opportunities to explore their creative sides. By- monthly teambuilding sessions would be held to ensure that staff get to know each other on a social level which will assist with their daily dealings with each other. Time out sessions like teambuilding sessions are great ways for staff to re-energise and get motivated.

Workspace for the team would be spacious with lots of natural light, comfortable furniture, colours which stimulate creativity and happiness and a semi formal dress code would be appropriate. Staff will be well aware of the fact that if they do not meet their targets or do not put in the effort expected, this will be dealt with.

The reality is, in time you will be the boss whether it be of your own company, director of another company or the boss of your life. You are never truly prepared for what is installed for you but the important point to remember is to appreciate and motivate those around you.