Exploring Leadership: The Best Manager You've Ever Had and the Impact They Make

Leadership in the workplace is a subject that has captured the imagination of individuals for decades. Everyone has their narrative about the best manager they've ever had. For me, that person was a woman named Johnnie. My journey with Johnnie showcased the myriad facets of effective leadership and mentorship, an exploration that continues to resonate with me to this day.

Introduction to Johnnie

Johnnie was my mentor, and quite simply, the best manager I've ever had. She was not everyone's cup of tea — many found her pushy and demanding. However, I soon came to appreciate her integrity and detailed approach to the rules and policies within our organization. Johnnie lived by the book, a habit that earned her the reputation of being inflexible, but it was that same stick-to-the-rules attitude that made her an exceptional leader. She was honest, fair, and never compromised on principles. Over the years, I watched her train and develop many new recruits, and in my assessment, she was undoubtedly the most sincere and honest manager I have ever met.

The Best Boss is Caring and Free

However, it's not just about being honest and fair. The best boss is someone who genuinely cares about you as an individual. For example, my best boss was an individual who focused on my personal growth and development, giving me a great deal of autonomy and believing in my abilities. This approach not only empowered me but also made me feel that anything was possible with the right support and guidance.

A Leadership Lesson in the ICU

The realization that my life and career could be irrevocably altered by one mistake came in the form of a dramatic moment in a hospital's ICU. I had a "powerful" weekend of trauma call, a schedule that we described as something particularly gruesome: Friday 4 a.m. to Saturday 2 p.m., back at the hospital on Sunday 4 a.m. to do it all over again. By Monday morning, something bound to get past me did, and it didn't matter that the patient was fine. Dr. H, the chair of the department of surgery and a legendary trauma surgeon, had made it abundantly clear that imperfection would not be tolerated.

Strength and Vulnerability

Dr. H's leadership style was a mix of strength and vulnerability. He was known to fire me weekly, sometimes in front of patients, family, and staff. His demands were high, and he expected nothing less from his team. Yet, there were moments of humanity, like when he purchased an ice cream for me at the airport during a conference, or when he made a silly joke about smoking marijuana in a tense ICU environment.

The Power of Humor and Trust

Humor played a significant role in his mentorship. Once, during a Grand Rounds lecture, he asked, "What kills people in war?" and I, without hesitation, said "Bullets." He paused, considering my response, and then said, "I was going to say hemorrhage, but sure, that will work too." Those moments of levity were not just about making a bad situation more bearable; they also reinforced trust and fostered a sense of camaraderie.

In conclusion, the best manager or boss is someone who is principled, supportive, and often capable of being both a strict leader and a warm mentor. Leadership is not just about rules and discipline; it's about nurturing and empowering. Johnnie, Dr. H, and the best bosses are those who strike that delicate balance, making a real impact on the lives and careers of those they guide.