Google Builds Better Bosses

This past Sunday (3/13/2011) The NY Time published an article about Google building better bosses.  In 2009, Google launched Project Oxygen, the objective was to review thousands of pieces of data and figure out what it takes to be a great manager at Google. I am so excited about this list because it is based on real data, not just assumptions.  Here is the list in order of importance:

1. Be a good coach. 2. Empower your team & don’t micromanage. 3. Express interest in team members’ success and personal well-being. 4. Don’t be a sissy: Be productive and results oriented. 5. Be a good communicator & listen to your team. (this is my favorite, Duh!) 6. Help your employees with career development. 7. Have a clear vision & strategy for the team. 8. Have key technical skills so you can advise the team. (this came in at #8 at Google!)

Pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Having trouble making a transition to the team. 2. Lacking a consistent approach to performance management & career development. 3. Spending too little time managing & communicating.

Employees typically leave a company for one of three reasons:

1. The employee does not feel a connection with the mission, vision or values of the organization. 2. The employee doesn’t really like or respect his/her co-workers. 3. The employee has a terrible boss. What does this data teach us? When we take the time to coach, train and develop managers, everyone wins! If you need some help developing your managers, give me a call today 845-294-7089.