The leadership traits such as --compassionate human-centered leadership, realistic expectations and clear communication -- remain constant though the qualities employees value in a boss are evolving.

These traits create a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered and set the standard for success.

One of the three essentials of effective leadership is “Compassionate human-centered focus” as compassionate leadership requires us to embrace our own humanity and genuinely connect with the humanity of those around us.

Employees today are navigating unprecedented levels of stress and disengagement. According to the recent Gallup State of the Global Workplace 2023 Report, 59% of employees worldwide are disengaged. They’re quiet quitting by showing minimal productivity and effort and feeling disconnected from their work. The report also highlighted that employee stress levels remain at record highs, with 44% reporting having experienced significant stress daily. It’s no surprise then that more than half of currently employed workers (51%) are actively seeking new job opportunities.

therefore, good bosses must demonstrate genuine care for their team’s wellbeing to counter this trend. This involves taking the time for regular check-ins and seeing how your people are traveling. It’s empathizing with their challenges and supporting them to overcome these hurdles, asking meaningful questions, and showing a sincere interest in their responses. 

The second essential is “Realistic Expectations” which encompasses job requirements, behavioral standards, workload sustainability, and work flexibility. Good bosses must establish a clear framework for what is expected, balancing ambition and achievability.

Amid feelings of overwhelm, when so much feels out of control, having realistic and clear expectations from a leader is essential. Employees should have a comprehensive understanding of their roles and the standards of behavior expected of them. This clarity helps mitigate confusion and sets the employee up for success. 

Managing workload sustainability is also crucial. Leaders must ensure workloads are realistic to prevent burnout and foster a healthy work-life balance or risk having their employees resign or be off work on sick or stress leave.

Work flexibility and design have become non-negotiable in the modern workplace. Good bosses must, wherever possible, accommodate diverse working styles and personal circumstances, offering flexibility that enables employees to perform at their best.  

“Clear Communication” is the third leadership quality which helps good bosses foster an environment where employees are supported to continuously learn, improve, and develop.

In times of uncertainty, clear communication is essential. Employees crave straightforward, transparent messaging from their bosses that goes beyond directives and plans. It’s about articulating the team’s vision, direction, and priorities of the team, and explaining the ‘why’ behind decisions.

A leader’s ability to define roles, tasks, and expectations sets the foundations for success. Employees need to know what “done well” looks like to align their efforts and excel. This clarity also applies to feedback, which should be shared early, often, and constructively.

It is also important for building trust. Employees want their leaders to communicate in a simple, authentic, and transparent manner. Transparency isn’t just about honesty. It’s about proactively sharing necessary truths. Even if the message is unwelcome, if it’s delivered clearly and empathetically, employees are more likely to understand and accept it.

If you want to be successful a boss, communicate with clarity, lead with compassion and set realistic expectations concerning your employees.