Strange right ? On hearing this question, an instant internal response may be,”Me ask him ? He’s the one who I think can do so much better”. He should be the one asking this question.
But let me tell you this – The boss that can ask this question is the one who has the potential of being a Leader as opposed to just a superior in a hierarchy.
The attributes of Leadership that this one simple question displays is humility, openness and a genuine concern for the growth and well being of your employees.
Companies are spending a lot of money to train their people on the most conducive behaviours to increase employee engagement and increase productivity. Creating an environment of trust and real concern for your employees by asking this question and encouraging and allowing honest answers is a sure shot way of increasing employee engagement.
By displaying this openness you create a collaborative environment thus unleashing channels for innovation within your team and in the organization. You display the qualities of being an Inclusive Leader.
In fact why not practise at home by asking this question to your parents “How can I be a better son/daughter ?” , your spouse “How can I be a better husband or wife ?” or your child “How can I be a better parent to you ?”.
It is hard, but once you can bring yourself to ask this, you are yourself on the path to self improvement and self awareness. It will only enhance you as an individual, which benefiting your employees and your organization.
This post originally written at http://www.talentpowerpartners.com/blog/have-you-ever-asked-your-sub-ordinate-what-can-i-do-to-be-a-better-boss-to-you
I am an ICF Certified Executive Coach. Please do reach out at bhavnadalal@gmail.com to know more.