Let’s be real. I’m not here to recycle those dull job-posting phrases about wanting “professional, dynamic, and passionate” employees. Honestly, those words are such snooze buttons. The truth is: every boss has their own taste – just like how some folks swear by street-side iced tea, while others can’t live without their Highland coffee.
For me, the must-haves are:
Attitude over aptitude
Yes, I know, this one’s been said to death, but it’s still gospel truth. I’d rather hire a “blank sheet” fresh out of school than a grumpy know-it-all with a stuck-up attitude. I’ve seen “assistants” who instantly behave like “managers” the moment they step in. Skills can be trained, but attitude…well, that’s a lost cause. As the old saying goes: “Mountains may move, but personalities stay put.” Or in plain English: “There’s no cure for that!”
Character isn’t just being polite
I need a little boldness – the type who’s willing to do things outside their job description without whining. Smart young people know: the more you do, the sharper you get. And those nameless little tasks? Yep, that’s exactly what makes you grow up fast.
The sensitive topic: Boss errands
Some bosses ask you to pick up their kid, grab diapers, or fix the office fan. Do it too often and you’re basically a premium housemaid. But if you can ace your company tasks and handle the odd errand, well – congratulations, you’ve just become the boss’s golden child.
Work spirit
There are two kinds of workers: those who just tick boxes to pass, and those who nitpick typos, suggest improvements, and basically work like they’re competing in the Olympics..I prefer the second type – not just clocking in.
No promises, just real effort
I don’t need you to swear eternal loyalty. Just give your best while you’re here. Don’t say “I’ll stay forever” and then disappear next week. Keep it simple, keep it Nike: Just do it!
Love of learning
A curious, eager-to-learn employee? That’s top-tier. Even silver-haired bosses still take management or law courses. But an employee who refuses to learn? That’s scarier than a year-end deadline.
Heart + personality
If you’ve got a good heart, love sports, do charity, and have a sense of humor – sorry, you’re hired. No interview needed. People like that win over not just the boss but colleagues and clients too.
Youth and creativity
I’ll admit it – I love working with young folks. Energy, craziness, wacky ideas – they’re the company’s daily dose of vitamins. To be honest, I’m starting to feel getting old.
A little side note
Some bosses think paying salaries makes them kings. They yell, scold, maybe even throw in a slap or two. Sorry, but money can buy obedience, not respect. Employees will leave – and they’ll badmouth you everywhere they go.
A truly special boss is one whose name employees speak with pride – not muttered curses.
In the end, wouldn’t it be nice if, even after parting ways, bosses and ex-employees could still greet each other warmly – rather than pretending to be total strangers? Trust me, that’s harder than it sounds!
A Boss’s Confidences – Musings by Ha Kim – Saigon 2025
