Picking the perfect boss
27/09/2010, Author: Alan Redman
Picking your perfect boss may seem like a luxury when you’re looking for a job, but remember this is someone who is going to have a big impact on the quality of your life. There’s no single one-size-fits-all prefect boss, but here are five good indications you should look for during an interview:
Do they seem time pressured? If their approach is hurried with frequent interruptions and time checking they may be a stressful person to work with. Bosses with ‘Type-A’ personalities often conduct interviews quickly, with little focus or planning. They check their watches, tap their feet or fingers while you talk and often won’t wait for you to finish your answer before moving on to their next question. The Type-A personality is associated with high stress levels, hostility, competiveness and workaholism - and bosses often expect their staff to share their approach.
Are they emotionally intelligent? Look for your potential boss to demonstrate empathy - an understanding of your feelings. They may pick up on the emotional elements within your answers, especially when you are describing achievements or setbacks. Emotionally intelligent bosses develop more effective relationships with their staff and can manage their own emotions more appropriately.
Do they value what you say? Some bosses are just looking for a body to fill a vacancy; you want to work for someone who values your contributions. Look for the quality of their listening during the interview. Their questions should build on your answers rather than just be drawn from a random list. They should express interest and curiosity by following up on what you have told them. They should only do a maximum of one-third of the talking during the interview.
Do they have a clear vision for the job? Effective bosses understand the culture of their organisation and the team they lead. They will have thought carefully about how every individual they manage can contribute and they understand the demands and rewards of the job. You should ask questions at the end of the interview to check your potential boss’s understanding of the job and find out whether it’s a role that can meet your needs and expectations. And watch out for the boss over-promising!
And finally don’t forget GSOH. A boss with a good sense of humour, or at least one that is compatible with your own, will be easier to work with. They will be more emotionally resilient, which will make them calmer and more effective in a crisis plus less prone to stress and outbursts. Humour should be used cautiously in a formal interview but if it comes naturally then the rapport with your new boss is already building, which is a great sign.
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