Line Time

Here’s One Thing a Great Boss is Never Afraid to Say

Step up and take the blame for that big mistake.

Published

15 years ago

July 2, 2008

INSTORE Staff Instore July 2008 Issue

Here’s One Thing a Great Boss is Never Afraid to Say

SOMETHING GOES WRONG – e.g. a big deadline, or sales target, is missed. Barring a (very) obvious culprit, the great boss is the first to step up to the plate and say:

“OOPS, I BLEW IT!”

Why? To keep things positive, and to move on. The great boss is also the first person to give credit to others when a big project is accomplished successfully.

Source: Jeffrey Fox Author, How To Become a Great Boss

An employee comes to you for advice on an issue. Don’t simply solve his problem using your experience and knowledge. Instead, say:

“I DON’T KNOW. WHAT DO YOU THINK?”

Why? This answer doesn’t show weakness or ignorance. All it shows is your eagerness for your employees to think on their own.

Source: Jeffrey Fox Author, How To Become a Great Boss

Wilkerson Testimonials

Wilkerson: “They Feel Like Family”

Newton’s Jewelers in Fort Smith, Ark., was a true institution. But after being at the helm for most of his life, owner (and descendent of the original founder) Kelly Newton decided it was time to retire. He chose Wilkerson to handle the sale. “I’ve known the owners of Wilkerson for a long, long time. I felt at home with them,” he says. The final retirement sale was just a “blast” and the Wilkerson sales team made it so very simple and straightforward, says Newton. Would he recommend Wilkerson to others? Absolutely. “They’ve done incredible work,” says Newton. “They feel like family.”