In your opinion, what are the most important qualities a successful boss should have?

I want to know what you think describes an excellent boss. Thinking back on your favorite boss, what was it that made them stand out to you? First, in a positive way. Secondly, what things stood out in a negative light?

Tomorrow, I will be starting my first day running a division of a company. I’ve been a secondary supervisor to a small group of employees before but I have never been solely responsible for a team before. I, at the very least, have somewhat sufficient skills already seeing as how I was hired for the job. What I want to do, is collect information from workers. I want to be a successful boss who gets results without having a crew who resents me.

I’m hoping the wonderful Fluther collective can share some tips, some Do’s and Dont’s of the managing world.