Don't Glorify Your Boss

Originally published on 2 March 2015. Republished with minor corrections; the argument is unchanged.

A great boss

Have you ever worked for a boss who was out of this world? Someone so inspiring that you could hardly believe the advice you were receiving?

They were available to help you evolve. We are talking exceptional here. If you have worked for such a boss, you are fortunate. Most bosses are not like that. Most of them are struggling somewhere halfway up the mountain. But this one manager, this exceptional person, was high on the summit.

Why not to glorify

Well, let me give you a piece of advice. Don't glorify them. Here's why.

• Never forget they are human.
• Surely there is something they could improve? Nobody is perfect.
• Glorification is never good for anyone. It might get into their head. Don't glorify. Help them stay modest.
• Don't forget that the air up there is thin, and that it is lonely. Help them by being a companion, not a fan.
• In rare cases, you may be dealing with someone using charm to lure you into thinking you are in heaven. Babiak and Hare's Snakes in Suits is worth reading on this.
• Maybe the good relationship is a temporary situation. They were there at the right time. You needed them, and you were willing to accept whatever the downside was — or you simply did not see it.
• Glorification assumes that leadership success is their merit alone. But a good leader depends a great deal on the context they work in. And the people around that leader reinforce good leadership. Any good leader knows it is not about them.

Appreciation is fine

Of course you should appreciate a good boss. They are hard to find. Here are ten characteristics worth appreciating.

• Vision. They are clear and consistent. They create meaningfulness and unite people around a common cause.
• Credibility. They walk the talk.
• Vulnerability. They admit mistakes. They will not try to hide them, or blame others.
• Space. They give you enough room to grow, and as you grow, you get more of it.
• Generosity. They let others shine and do not take all the credit.
• Loyalty. They defend you when you are in trouble.
• Attention. They see you as a person, listen to what you need, and care about your health.
• Context. They build an environment where people can thrive, and create opportunities for them.
• Respect. Talking to them, you feel an abundance of respect, kindness and fairness — even when they make tough calls. They never threaten you.
• Fun. They are good company.

If you have such a boss, go and give them a compliment. Do it now. But never glorify them. It is in their interest, and in yours.