In BBC's television program, The Office, David Brent is a regional manager of the Slough office of Wernham Hogg. He is an inept, politically incorrect boss. Yet, he thinks his employees love him and that he is the greatest boss of all time. He buys himself a "world’s best boss" coffee mug and uses it as proof positive that he is, in fact, the greatest boss.

This television program is comedy and has even spun off an American version of the show. David Brent is not the world's best boss, not even close. But watching him and his antics is great comedy. He inspired me to write an article describing what really does make a great boss. Here are the characteristics of what I believe makes a great boss.

Intelligence: A boss needs to be intelligent and smart; he must be an expert when it comes to the company's products and services.

Empathy: A boss must possess genuine empathy towards all stakeholders – employees, customers, shareholders, and owners.

Recognition: A boss needs to recognize work well done – both monetarily and verbally.

Sense of humor: A dry office is a boring office. The boss must set the tone and allow people to joke around and have fun – as long as the work gets done.

Problem solver: The boss is the first person that people talk to when there is a business problem. He must be diplomatic in resolving problems and complaints.

Being a coach and mentor: The boss is naturally seen as a coach and mentor. People look up to the person in charge and respect him. He must teach and encourage his employees.

Listening skills: A boss needs to listen to his employees – complaints, compliments, and suggestions, and implement rules and procedures to carry out his employees' concerns.

Feedback: The boss needs to give feedback to his employees, both positive and negative. This helps people improve their careers. Everybody needs feedback.

These are just some of the traits and characteristic of a great boss. But great leaders come in all shapes and sizes. Great companies have great people with leadership skills. And, having a coffee mug that says "world's best boss" does not make you a great leader. David Brent isn't the greatest boss.

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