Good bosses aren't always nice. Or patient. Or gentle. But in researching his book, "The Gifted Boss," author and syndicated columnist Dale Dauten found at least one common thread: They connect with people personally.

"They're someone you respect enough you want to impress them," says Dauten from his Arizona office.

So how do they win such regard? Dauten offers some examples:

• They're "learn-it-alls" rather than "know-it-alls."

• They're eager to give credit.

• They have high standards and set big goals.

• They inspire greatness in others.

Peter Schutz, the former CEO of Porsche, summed up the ideal kind of relationship between boss and subordinate: "I like me best when I'm around you."

"That's the relationship," Dauten says. "You're trying to live up to the boss's view of your best self."

The Seattle Times