As you think about the year ahead and ways to improve your leadership and relationships with those you supervise, consider the following seven actions.

First, be credible. Let those you supervise know that you trust them and want them to tell you what they are thinking and what you need to know. And promise that you'll do the same in return.

Second, find ways to challenge. Challenging work can be a powerful motivator while boredom quickly can lead to diminished productivity and loss of enthusiasm. Finding ways to maintain consistent challenges without overwhelming people can build both energy and productivity.

Third, recognize good work. People want to know that their efforts and accomplishments mean something. They also want to be noticed. Positive feedback can go a long way toward building loyalty and commitment to high performance.

Fourth, recognize and address poor performance. While it may sometimes be uncomfortable, giving negative feedback can be as important to good productivity as praise. However, our feedback needs to be objective, specific, and timely. Avoid letting your criticism build up and spill over thus risking damage to the relationship and an unproductive outcome.

Fifth, keep communication flowing. Be open with information. Be clear and direct. When possible, let people know in advance when something is about to happen.

Sixth, build partnerships. Ask for opinions and advice. Invite people to contribute in important ways. Give them opportunities to participate in decision-making wherever possible.

Seventh, don't be afraid to say no. It is not possible to give people everything they want; in fact, attempting to do so likely will lead to false hope and later disappointment. Rather, be clear about the reasons for saying no, and be willing to listen. Most people understand that sometimes you must say no. However, they still want to be respected, listened to, and informed.

Source: The star profile: Thirteen steps to becoming a better boss. Business Management Daily. Online: www.businessmanagementdaily.com