Now think about the good bosses you have had. I hope you have had at least one in your career. Why were they good? Why was the experience working for them so invigorating and memorable? Wouldn't you like to create such an environment for anyone under your area of supervision?

It doesn't matter if you have large numbers of people reporting to you or if you are a manager in a small organization with just one administrative assistant - everyone who interacts with others in a supervisory role should focus on making the environment around them supportive and motivating. In the long run, there is no other way to reach your goals.

People are an organization's most valuable resource, more important than the computers they work on; more important than the buildings they work in; and ultimately more important than the clients they serve. Without them, you would not have a business and without happy and motivated staff, your business cannot grow and be the leader in your competitive set.

There are a few areas that I have found are non-negotiable in being a good boss and creating an environment of achievement.

Treat people with respect.

I am always amazed that so many people don't ...