PPB October 2019

Bridget Dahlgren Inside Sales And Marketing Manager Crystal D St. Paul, Minnesota Years managing others: Five Why she was nominated: “I wasn’t the most qualified person in the world when I was hired, but Bridget took a chance onme and she was able to help me succeed inmy role,” says nominator Jen Jezeirski, who has reported to Dahlgren for five years. “She’s always looked for my strengths and has givenme the projects she knows she can count onme to knock out of the park. She celebrates all our successes inside and outside of work. Bridget is more than just my boss; I consider her one of my friends as well.” Bridget’s insights on her best boss: I have been very lucky to have wonderful bosses throughout my career. The qualities they all had were strong character, high value for integrity, visionary, direct with their communication and an understanding of how I learned the best. They all had a drive for a standard of excellence; there was never an option to choose to be successful, it just was expected and then achieved. Her advice for managing others: Forgive. This may not be a conventional answer, but I do believe that we are all humans and need some grace sometimes, especially when learning. Creating a culture in your workplace that encourages learning and constructive criticismwill go a long way. Also, know that people leavemanagers, not companies, so never stop learning whether that means reading a book, listening to a podcast or joining a networking group—surround yourself with people and information that will help you become a better leader. Bridget Dahlgren, left, with her nominator and direct report Jen Jezeirski. Graeme Dawes Regional Manager Elite Promotional Marketing Stony Plain, Alberta Years managing others: 25 Why he was nominated: “I had never worked in sales until this job and I had never experienced a boss like Graeme before—he actually cares about his employees,” says nominator Christina Clark, who has been at the company for three years. “His open-door policy makes it easy to approach him. He will help provide all the training we ask for and sends us to events so we are more confident and happier in our roles. He expresses the importance of taking care of ourselves and each other so it makes the jobmore enjoyable. And he’s respectful and humble—seriously is one of the greatest people on the planet. He deserves all the good life has to offer and then some.” Graeme’s insights on his best boss: I worked for my dad and he was the one that I respected as he always says you get the respect you give to others. His advice for managing others: My rules of thumb are “Treat others how you want to be treated” and “Respect is earned.” I value my staff very much and feel they are a big part of what we achieve every day. Graeme Dawes, right, with his direct report and nominator Christina Clark. 28 | OCTOBER 2019 | FEATURE | Best Bosses Of 2019