NEW TODAY: MEET THE BOSS… ANDERSON CRAIG OFFICE SUPPLIES
Name: STEPHEN ANDERSON
Company: ANDERSON CRAIG OFFICE SUPPLIES, GLASGOW
Position: DIRECTOR
What makes a great boss?
Being a leader and a manager can be a bit of a juggling act but if you want
the best from your staff in your small business, coming up with ideas to
grow the business is as important as communicating them in a way that makes
staff feel engaged and rewarded.
How did you get the job?
It’s my own business
When did you last hire someone and why?
We hire every 6 months or so. Last time it was a delivery driver, the time
before that it was a sales exec. As a growing company we need to increase
our staff numbers as our customer base grows.
When did you last sack someone and why?
One year ago. I had to sack my sales manager. He had spent four months giving me
the run around and claiming he had been offered another job with a rival. We
agreed to match the offer. He then saw that as his opportunity to hold us to
ransom for more. I refused and the relationships soured, he stopped doing
his job properly. It was the first time in 15 years of business I have had
to sack someone. Not a pleasant experience.
What is your best piece of business advice?
Never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t be willing to do yourself.
What makes you angry?
Not a lot, although bad service is annoying. Depending on how much I am
paying for said service depends on the level of annoyance.
How often do you go on holiday…and where do you go?
3-4 times per year. Mostly to the Canaries, but also Canada, Italy, Czech
Republic.
How do you motivate staff?
We have mutually agreed task lists and KPI’s and if those are met then
rewards are garnered. We also offer a very good life Assurance and pension
package, to help with retention
What is your favourite TV show?
Lately I would have to say Breaking Bad but all time it is The Sopranos
How do you relax?
Doing anything with my kids, which could be skiing or vegging on the sofa
in front of a movie.
What is your proudest moment?
The birth of my kids
What is your most embarrassing moment?
I have had too many to mention… never be afraid of embarrassing yourself.
