Turning the tables
Earlier this year, in reviewing articles about the skills and competencies assistants should bring to the table, I thought it would be interesting to learn about the qualities assistants hope their principals bring to that same table.
The interview: an opportunity to assess fit
Realistically, job interviews are not merely opportunities for an employer to assess candidates. Most assistants of a certain level of experience and confidence will also be assessing the principal, and the potential for a positive working relationship. That relationship should be a two-way street, even if one person has more power.
With these thought in mind, I presented readers with 21 characteristics of a good boss. I asked readers to rate the importance of each of these qualities on a scale from one (nice, but not a priority) to five (critical).
Characteristics of a good boss
What came out top? The principal’s respect for people across the org chart. You can find the full results of this particular Weekend Poll by clicking here. For now, though, here are the Top 10 qualities of a principal according to today’s assistants.
- Respectful of people across the organisational chart
- Demonstrates Integrity
- Invested in the organisation’s success
- Demonstrates leadership
- Shares information
- Assumes well of the assistant’s efforts unless proven otherwise
- Supports the assistant’s professional development
- Makes the assistant feel valued
- Is a good role model
- Is inclusive of the assistant and other colleagues
If you’re able to credit your current principal with possessing the majority of these qualities, it’s likely a safe guess that you’re an engaged employee – which positions you to contribute effectively to your organisation’s success!
Making it work: you and your principal
Click on the links below for these other articles I’ve written.
