I’m a boxing fan. I’m a bigger fan of MMA since the fights have more action and champions actively seek the toughest fights and never duck opponents, but boxing is my first love.
At the beginning of the fight, just before the opening bell rings, the referee brings both fighters to the center of the ring for instructions. Now these have all been given in the fighter’s dressing room before they even get to the ring so it’s a mere formality, but the final instruction given is: “protect yourself at all times.”
This seems strange, given that this is a fight and only a moron would neglect to protect themselves, but there is a different reason for it. During a boxing match, there can be any number of distractions. At a heavyweight championship fight years ago, a fan parachuted into the ring. As a fighter, if you take your focus off the fight for even a second, your opponent might take advantage and crack you in the jaw. That sucker punch might cost them a point, but now that you’re rattled, you may suffer more damage.
As The Boss, this piece of advice applies to you as well. Protect yourself at all times. From what? Here are three threats you are responsible for:
- Safety Violations. As The Boss, you’re the first line of defense against any safety-related issues. Your job is to find unsafe working conditions, ensure those conditions are reported, and make sure your team is practicing safe work and wearing their personal protective devices if indicated.
- HR Violations. I know mandatory HR training is boring, but it’s important. And, by virtue of you signing the attendance roster, you forfeit the right to tell a judge you had no idea the violation was going on. “You knew or should have known” applies to you. Look for and instantly address any complaints about discrimination or sexual harassment. Partner with your HR professional and protect your house.
- Company Reputation. This is a two-fold responsibility. First, make sure if your company has branded or logo-featuring apparel, that your employees be on their best behavior when in public. This is why Disney cast members are on stage the moment they drive onto the premises. Nobody wants to see Snow White dragging on a cigarette. Second, be sure to address customer complaints in a timely manner. Research problems and find solutions. It’s a business practice and it’s partially your responsibility.
Protecting yourself at all time shouldn’t make you a paranoid micromanager. It shouldn’t mean you shut others out and build a wall around yourself. It means that you’ll expect the unexpected and do your job. It’s why you’re The Boss. It’s why that role is so special and admirable.
Be The Boss at all times. Protect yourself at all times.