Attn: Shitty Bosses

*Disclaimer: I’m currently very happy at work. But I didn’t used to be. A friend of mine is still stuck in the hole of a company where we used to work together, and listening to her ongoing struggles has unearthed the old anger I still secretly house towards the place. This is my release.

 Are you a shitty boss? Then consider these points if you want to improve your leadership style and create a healthier, happier workplace for your team and yourself.

·       Recognize that young professionals want to be passionate about their jobs and aren’t just in it to make ends meet. So don’t squash their enthusiasm, amp that shit up!

·       Don’t take advantage of young professionals. If they’re talented and rock their roles, don’t deny them the payment, rewards or overall treatment they deserve just because they’re “inexperienced.”

·       Don’t play games with them. I don’t care how small your company is – if you’re its leader, don’t let your own pettiness or selfishness poison your ability to lead an awesome team. This isn’t some CW dramedy, this is your legacy and their livelihood.

·       The relationship between an employer and employee is still a relationship. Respect it by understanding that your employee wants to want to do amazing things; by being open to their ideas and by actually listening to them; and by trying to meet them where they are during conflict resolution. Because you know they’ve been doing the same for you.

·       Don’t underestimate the power of rewards. I’m not even talking about bonuses or any monetary gifts. I mean a slap on the back for a job well done. And no, this isn’t hand-holding. This is being a decent human being. If you’re the type of leader who never recognizes your employees’ accomplishments but never fails to hound them for their mistakes, you are not a leader and you need to sit the fuck down.

·       Keep things in perspective. Understand that one day you’ll be dead, and someone’s going to take your place. You can’t take it with you, so don’t clutch onto your position and “authority” too tightly, because it’s alllllll going to disappear one day, just like your employees’ paychecks do every time they have to pay rent.