The truth | How to tell if you're seen as a 'scary boss'

No leader wants to be seen as a pushover.

Those who simply allow employees to take the lead without guidance will quickly discover that without much-needed guidance; the business’ operations start to unravel. Employees will lack direction and ultimately, someone will have to step up and take the reins, making you redundant in the process.

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Perspectives | 'The worst boss I ever had': Stories with grave warnings for leaders

However, there’s a fine line to be drawn between being a commanding and authoritative boss – the kind of person people listen to, trust and depend upon – and being an intimidating figure, which comes with its own, almost more severe, pitfalls. And whilst you may shrug off the notion that you intimidate your employees, remember that to them, you’re in a position of power. You hold all the cards and have the authority to either boost their careers or fire them.

No employee should feel the need to walk on eggshells around their leader, yet a shocking amount still do. A study by Hult International Business School found that 34% of employees surveyed felt that their boss was intimidating and as such, were more likely to stay silent on issues of concern. 39% of participants said that they felt ‘guarded’ rather than ‘open’ in meetings. The less employees feel empowered to be themselves at work and be at ease with their leaders, the less you’ll get out of them and the less insight and expertise are being invested in the company. It’s a big deal.