Boss's Day

Boss's Day History

Boss's Day, also known as National Boss's Day, aims to strengthen the bond between employees and employers. The occasion is dedicated to paying homage to supervisors, team leaders, and employers who exhibit exceptional leadership and mentorship in the workplace. It encourages the appreciation of the hard work and dedication put forth by those in supervisory or managerial positions, while fostering a healthy working environment that leads to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.

Patricia Bays Haroski, an employee at State Farm Insurance Company, conceptualized Boss's Day in 1958. She chose October 16th as the date to celebrate the occasion as it was her father's birthday, who also happened to be her boss at the company. Haroski's intent was to highlight the vital role that good managers play in the workforce, and in 1962, Illinois Governor Otto Kerner officially proclaimed the day as Boss's Day. Since then, the tradition has spread across the United States, with many businesses and employees participating in the annual event.

In America, Boss's Day is commonly observed by employees gifting their supervisors with tokens of appreciation. These can include cards, flowers, small gifts, or even organizing a team lunch to show their gratitude. The primary objective is to not only thank the boss for their hard work but also to help cultivate positive relations within the workplace. Although the date was initially set as October 16th by Haroski, if this day falls on a weekend, it is generally celebrated on the closest working day.

Boss's Day facts

• The gender gap is prevalent in leadership roles. According to the World Economic Forum, only 34% of global managers are women.
• Surveys have revealed that majority of employees leave their jobs due to their boss and not necessarily the company.
• A boss's attitude and behavior often reflect the company's culture as a whole, making their role critical in retaining and motivating employees.
• According to catalyst.org, in 2020 the percentage of women in senior and management roles globally was 29%. In the U.S, the percentage of women in senior and management roles was 40%.

In the News and Trending in the US for Boss's Day

Top things to do in the US for Boss's Day

• Give your employer a card, flowers, or a gift certificate to show appreciation.
• Coordinate a potluck lunch at the workplace where everyone can contribute their favorite dishes. This allows for team bonding and shows appreciation for your boss.
• Arrange a team-building exercise or a fun activity during work hours, such as a trivia game, scavenger hunt, or a friendly competition.
• Write a heartfelt thank-you note or a personalized message to acknowledge your boss's efforts and support.