I've advised countless business leaders who outfit offices with arcade games, host Friday happy hours, and prioritize ongoing team training. Employees and clients rave: "What a cool boss!"
So I dug into what "cool" truly means for leaders. How can you embody it? What defines a cool boss, and how do these qualities shine on the job?
Related: 10 Quick Tips for Being a Better Boss
My introduction to "cool" came in the late 1970s via prime-time TV. The icon? Arthur "The Fonz" Fonzarelli from Happy Days, brought to life by Henry Winkler. To my 6-year-old eyes, he had it all: respect, invincibility, finger-snap magic (and that motorcycle). The thumbs-up emoji? Pure Fonzie.
Revisiting the show as an adult revealed deeper layers I missed back then:
Fonzie wasn't just tough—he wielded strength to defend friends like Ralph or Potsie from bullies. When Joanie was down, he'd deliver a hug and kind words. His deep care for friends and family was unmistakable.
He wasn't only results-focused; he mentored Richie, deriving real joy from his growth and newfound confidence.
And the king of cool? He shared vulnerability and warmth with the Cunninghams, Al at the diner, and especially his mom.
Your challenge: Channel Fonzie to level up your leadership.
Related: 10 habits of ultra-likeable leaders
1. Stop talking and do something.
Spot engagement chances: Ask who needs help or feedback, then act—a note, lunch, follow-through. Teams follow leaders worth chasing.
2. Select a person to mentor.
Recall the classic: CFO asks CEO, "What if we invest in employees and they leave?" CEO: "What if we don't and they stay?" This builds loyalty, sparks recruiting, and transforms lives—your talent pipeline thrives.
3. Open up.
As an executive coach, I guide leaders to reveal vulnerability, peering behind the title. It shows amplified pressures, forging profound team bonds.
4. Get a motorbike.
(Selfish plug for my wife—forgive me.)
Adopt these, and watch morale soar, productivity climb, profits rise. Fonzie would approve. "Aaaaayyyyyyyyy!"
Related: Are you a good boss?
