What it Takes to Be a Good Boss: A Personal Assistant's Perspective

I can still remember my reservations and concerns when I had landed my first corporate job - that of a Personal Assistant at Xerox Corporation. Will I manage? Will I fit in the corporate environment? Will my knowledge, experience, and skills be enough? And, most importantly, will I get along with The Boss?

The boss was young, only 31, but already a Marketing Director. During both interviews I had undergone, she (yes, it was a Lady-Boss) was very pleasant and not at all intimidating, which reassured me to a point - but only to a point. After all, who would be mean at a job interview? Rubbing shoulders every day might prove to be different.

Within a week after taking the job, I knew I had been worrying in vain. I was blessed with a wonderful boss. To come and think of it, I've been lucky with bosses throughout my office career; I have seen my share of not so desirable ones, but never had to work with them (thank God). Still, my first Lady-Boss will always remain in my memory as the best of the best. All my co-workers in the Marketing Department loved her as well. So what did she do to be such a good boss to all of us? What does it take to be a good boss?

Well, she had made it look so easy that I am tempted to say, "Not much." However, as I reflect on it, I see that that answer would be incorrect. There actually was quite a lot to it. And while it came to her naturally, other bosses, just as naturally, might have no clue whatsoever. First and foremost, she respected each and every one of us and never acted superior. With all her impressive achievements, there was no hint of pride or arrogance in her - ever. Whether she spoke with a manager under her or a mailroom clerk, she was always respectful. Which brings us to Point #1 of what it takes to be a good boss: