Is it a good idea to intimidate your employees to do a better job or to actually be closer to them?

Question

Which way should a business owner approach his/her employees? for the best of the company. If you intimidate them I feel like they are always going to be afraid of doing something wrong and you're always going to be look as the mean, not friendly boss, and in the other way if I get closer to them they might get sloppy and not do their best.

Answer 1

There's a HUGE difference between being respected and being intimidating.
An intentionally intimidating boss is not respected; he'll probably be made fun of behind his back, the workers will be unhappy, and will only do their best when they think the boss will notice if they don't.
Being overly friendly with your employees may undermine the business's hierarchical structure. It's important to be sincere and courteous with them, but the manager probably does not need to be drinking buddies with his employees.
Asking how the employee is doing - either with a specific work task or with life in general; and then actually listening to the reply will build a relationship. Keep it professional, but invite employees (and significant others) out for dinner every few months.
Respect is earned, but it's not difficult for you to earn professional respect. If you know your job, and do your best you're well on your way. Be open to occasional suggestions to improve your managing style. Most importantly, make sure you are fair, and listen to any complaints - with a non-biased ear.

There are several books and courses aimed at this issue. It's probably worth investigating them!

Answer 2

i have the greatest boss ever! he is always on top of everything from inventory to employee issues. he is a good listener, a good advisor, and a great guy to work with. he does not intimidate the employees, he works right beside them. he's not a push over so we don't get sloppy in our work. our job is very demanding, so there's no room for sloppiness. the only advice i can offer is, don't be a hard*** and don't be a pushover. your employees will appreciate you more. :)

Answer 3

Asked and answered.

The best way is to lead your employees. Expect a job done right, and treat them well for doing it. Different employees require different approaches.

Occasionally the carrot is the best choice and sometimes the stick. The trick is in knowing which to use and what part of the mule to use it on.

Answer 4

as an employee myself - I would not like to be intimidated and if I were I would probably quit. I would rather you be nice and easy to get along with - you can do this without being a "push over" you know.....good luck.