Fast Talk

March 24, 2008

Q: Should the boss be the first one into the office in the morning and the last to leave at night? | posted by Fast Company staff

Tags: Work/Life

Share your ideas

10 Total

March 24, 2008 at 10:54am

David Denny

March 24, 2008 at 11:15am

Tim Tymchyshyn

only if he is stupid

March 24, 2008 at 11:21am

Bob Wood

March 24, 2008 at 2:02pm

YL Catino

very old school if he or she does...

March 24, 2008 at 2:18pm

Gene Lu

Not at all, but I do see how it can be respectful if a boss was to come in first and leave last. It DOES play a factor (albeit not a major one) in leading a team.

March 24, 2008 at 2:36pm

Edward Sussman

Almost impossible these days with flex hours. We have some people starting at 5 a.m. And other people ending their day at 9 p.m. but who begin at noon.

I think the question is: how can a boss still make it known that they are the most committed person at the organization given the modern work environment is mobile and time shifts.

March 24, 2008 at 2:45pm

Don Scheible

In order to "lead by example", a "boss" should manifest the best of practices. That may include commitment to others as evidenced by presence in the office. Being there first and last will only be effective if it is not done for superficial reasons.

If I arrive at the office after the "boss" only to find him/her napping, surfing the web or playing solitare, any meaningful purpose would be lost.

March 24, 2008 at 3:27pm

richard covington

If your job is an integral part of your life as well as the people employed with you, there is no first and last. Complete your daily job goals and see who else you can help.

March 24, 2008 at 4:24pm

David Grossman

I think that would make employees feel uncomfortable. I vote bad.

March 24, 2008 at 4:41pm

ganesh salunke

no gooood,

Share your ideas