Developing & Branding Your Personal Competitive Advantage

Today is October 16, National Boss Day.  I can't help but think about when I did an executive search in the late 90's for our client, Hallmark Cards, for new creative leadership and joking with my colleagues at the time that they may make up a new holiday.  A holiday like National Boss Day celebrated on October 16th.

Not long after that search was National Boss Day and because it was not on my calendar, I had no idea.  Then my local team at the time surprised me with a very nice card and thoughtful business card holder.  I thought for a minute, should I have gotten something for my boss?  Nah.  But I was touched that my team took the excuse to present me a fun gift and make fun of me a bit because I would have business cards scattered in my desk in rubber bands, etc.  It did not occur to me that my other office locations did not acknowledge me on National Boss Day and I guarantee my boss was not offended that I did not acknowledge him that day - or any other National Boss Day.  It also occurred to me that day that I have never known when Secretary Day was and thought for a moment, did my office manager notice that I did not notice? Nah.  In our environment, my office manager was not a secretary and I was not a boss.  We acknowledged each other every day by being top producers within the company and doing what we said we would do for each other and our clients.  He had our issue and challenges including my mistakes as a young and first time manager, but nobody needed to kiss-up and nobody did - ever. 

So what is the deal with National Boss Day?  In my mind, a great leader does not look for recognition.  Maybe that is why it is called boss rather than leader day.  What is the difference?