Thread: Is it possible to be a "fun" boss?

I will start with this... I GOT INTO GRAD SCHOOL!!!!!

As some know I am a registered nurse and have been for the past six years. Prior to this I was in school for my paramedic. By the time I graduated from college (7.5 years of school), I walked with four Associate's degrees and a total of 186 college hours. I have never wanted to pursue a Bachelor's secondary to having to take more core/ pre-req classes. But after a long break from school and working on my professional education, I finally felt like it was time to return to school and pursue a higher level of education.

Ok, so onto the premise of this topic. I can be a bit of a goof and enjoy joking with my coworkers. I, obviously, have no problem with being serious when the time calls for it. This can be frequent given the nature of emergency medicine. However, I have worked within businesses that even the sight of management can bring down the whole staff. I would prefer not to have this relationship with my staff, and thus ask "Is there such thing as a fun boss?"

First, congrats and good luck!!

To answer your question: sure, as long as the employees understand that you are still the boss.

yes

I have always tried to be a fun boss.
First I set the tone by telling the staff, both individually and in meetings that customer service is super important. Second is getting the job done. After that I believe that work should not be a chore. We spend more time with each other than our families. It's better if we get along and have fun. I try to spearhead the lively atmosphere by having contests of productivity and rewarding the winner. I try to take turns taking each person to lunch at least once...or a group lunch at least once a quarter.
I laugh heartily and most important, treat every equally. Playing favorites is the quickest way to poor morale.
When it's time to get something done or solve a problem, I show them I can push hard until it's done but then we can return to the relaxed atmosphere. I hate offices or companies where the leader keeps the atmosphere to serious. It shouldn't be too lax either. I don't tolerate tardiness or sloth. Got a problem, call someone if you're going to be late.

I also take time to provide counseling when needed and updated training. I always ask for feedback when important changes are coming or if there is an issue to resolve. In fact, I require feedback and will remind them not to complain if they don't offer any.

But the biggest thing is I always keep a smile and do a jovial greeting every morning. When they don't smile back I ask whats wrong. Then they get into the habit of smiling back. I leave my problems at home and I don't allow talking about each other behind their backs.

That's about it. Be consistent instead of Jekyl and Hyde. One of my motto's is "I'd rather have a fake smile than a real frown." I repeat it often. It sounds corny but it works.

Being the "fun" boss is easy if you get the right employees. They need to know their job as well as they need to respect yours.

That is the dumb'ed down version but yes.

Congrats on grad school.

I believe so yes. It all takes proper management though, there aren't a thousand ways to execute that personality within your business place.

Congrats on grad!

Not only is it possible but it is sort of mandatory. You cannot truly elevate your company culture until your employees enjoy being at work and care about what they do. Being a fun, likable, and inspirational boss is essential.

In a company where employees aren't motivated to excel on their own, there tends to be intense micro-management.

Originally Posted by Ice350

I have always tried to be a fun boss.
First I set the tone by telling the staff, both individually and in meetings that customer service is super important. Second is getting the job done. After that I believe that work should not be a chore. We spend more time with each other than our families. It's better if we get along and have fun. I try to spearhead the lively atmosphere by having contests of productivity and rewarding the winner. I try to take turns taking each person to lunch at least once...or a group lunch at least once a quarter.
I laugh heartily and most important, treat every equally. Playing favorites is the quickest way to poor morale.
When it's time to get something done or solve a problem, I show them I can push hard until it's done but then we can return to the relaxed atmosphere. I hate offices or companies where the leader keeps the atmosphere to serious. It shouldn't be too lax either. I don't tolerate tardiness or sloth. Got a problem, call someone if you're going to be late.

I also take time to provide counseling when needed and updated training. I always ask for feedback when important changes are coming or if there is an issue to resolve. In fact, I require feedback and will remind them not to complain if they don't offer any.

But the biggest thing is I always keep a smile and do a jovial greeting every morning. When they don't smile back I ask whats wrong. Then they get into the habit of smiling back. I leave my problems at home and I don't allow talking about each other behind their backs.

That's about it. Be consistent instead of Jekyl and Hyde. One of my motto's is "I'd rather have a fake smile than a real frown." I repeat it often. It sounds corny but it works.

You sound like a good and understanding boss, more companies need people like you.

Originally Posted by Plackslayer

Being the "fun" boss is easy if you get the right employees. They need to know their job as well as they need to respect yours.

That is the dumb'ed down version but yes.

Congrats on grad school.

quoted for truth.

I agree with everyone here.

Just have to make sure that line between friend and boss is still clear.