Best Bosses 2011

Everyone has had that boss who invites dread at the mere mention of his or her name, the sort who makes a onetime passion dreary, a sick day seem like a holiday. On the flip side, there are those who are a joy to be around, who foster an environment that’s rewarding, productive and fulfilling, making work a better place to be. But who are these people? Why are these leaders loved by their staffs?

To answer those questions, we reached out to readers with the goal of identifying individuals to feature in our inaugural “Best Bosses” contest. And we received dozens of nominations from which to choose. To assist, we called upon Cheryl Lynn Dratler, management and career consultant, and Lori Burke, director of human resources at INgage Networks, who provided their expertise and input to help Gulfshore Business pick the five finalists. “The task of reviewing nominations for ‘Best Boss’ was refreshingly delightful; selecting the winners was difficult,” Dratler says.

To make the choices, a line between good and great had to be drawn. A good boss will appreciate employees, motivate the staff and create a positive work environment. The best bosses not only appreciate an employee, but also support them to grow to their highest potential. A best boss goes beyond motivation, inspiring excellence. These characteristics, among several others, are what our judges looked for.

“In times when so many companies and so many bosses are not seen in a positive light, it was inspiring to see so many employees speaking so highly of the men and women they nominated,” Dratler says. “I would enthusiastically go to work for any of those who were nominated.”

A Ray of Optimism

Florida Home Realty of Collier County is a business where ambition, enthusiasm and professional support exist in spades, and co-owner Kathy Zorn is the reason why.