Happy Boss’ Day! The everyday leadership habits employees appreciate most

The HRO editorial team highlights the everyday actions leaders take that make the biggest difference in the workplace.

This feature is a collaborative effort by Umairah Nasir, Aditi Sharma Kalra, Priya Sunil, Sarah Gideon, and Tracy Chan.

Boss’ Day is a time to celebrate leadership, but employees say it is often the small, consistent habits of great leaders that leave the strongest impression.

Meaningful leadership comes from simple actions rather than grand gestures. Trust, encouragement, and genuine care often matter more than any office celebration.

Here’s what the Human Resources Online editorial team wants to share about the leadership habits they value most: 

Umairah Nasir, Journalist

I believe a good boss can make or break your work experience. To me, a great boss notices and truly values your efforts. Mine acknowledges both small wins and major achievements, and checks in when workloads get heavy. Her support makes me feel appreciated, motivated, and confident to tackle challenges, even during the busiest periods.

Aditi Sharma Kalra, Editor-in-Chief

A great boss, to me, is someone who has always been there, through my ups and downs, backing me no matter what and believing in my potential even when I didn't. They have always had my back, and demonstrated this in their own little or big ways - e.g., standing up for me in any meeting where I hesitated to speak up, ensuring I have a space to grow and step into, and coaching me to solve my issues without just telling me what to do. I am so grateful to have had great bosses who made work truly meaningful.

Priya Sunil, Deputy Editor

I really appreciate how my boss always makes it a point to check in on me - no matter how busy or where she is. Whether it's a quick note of encouragement or a simple "Are you on track to leave on time?", each gesture reminds me how lucky I am to have such an empathetic leader. That kind of care isn’t something everyone gets!

Sarah Gideon, Journalist

Anyone can be a good boss. But what makes my boss great is that she truly takes the time to listen to my woes, and is present. Not only does she celebrate my wins with me, but she empathises, and sometimes even cries when I share my struggles. Something that truly stands out is how proud she is of me, and she never fails to tell me or show me that; by giving me opportunities that younger me would never dream of doing.

Tracy Chan, Senior Journalist

A great boss, to me, is someone who understands their team not only through conversation, but also through thoughtful observation. They notice the small, everyday efforts their employees make, acknowledge incremental progress and little achievements, and proactively offer support – even before it's asked! This kind of attention shows the boss genuinely cares and sees the potentials of employees.

Boss’ Day is a reminder that leadership is more than formal recognition or celebrations. It is built on everyday actions that show trust, support growth, and demonstrate genuine care. These small, consistent habits create a workplace where employees feel valued, motivated, and inspired every day.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate our bosses for the difference they make!