Page 136 - How America's Best Places to Work Inspire Extra Effort in Extraordinary Times

The Real Job of Managers C123

notice the strong sense of appreciation. Would you agree that these
employees are probably giving back to their managers their loy-
alty and best effort? The best managers create reciprocal commit-
ment to employee and business goals. What behavior inspires such
commitment? We analyzed survey comments and identified the
following:

They coach and develop

: “My manager was so supportive of my career goals.”
: “My managers take an extremely proactive role in developing my
skill set. I am learning every day.”
: “I absolutely love where I work. I am often given new opportuni-
ties to challenge myself and grow as a young professional, and my
immediate supervisor is always willing to provide feedback and
professional development opportunities.”
: “My direct manager is always helping me to achieve my potential,
and he has fostered a great personal relationship between the two
of us that makes him, in my eyes, not the typical boss, but more of
a mentor.”
: “I have had amazing opportunities for increased responsibilities
over the last three years. I attribute that to my manager recognizing
my strengths and aligning my work to maximize my contributions.”

They value their employees and show appreciation

: “I really believe that my manager is a true example of what a di-
rector should be. She is always open for suggestions, and she makes
everyone feel like they are important.”
: “My boss is a great guy with a true open-door policy. I can walk
into his office at any time and ask any question, and he takes the
time to answer and teach.”