These Are the 5 Most Badass Bosses of All Time

Some bosses aren't in it to be loved

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Martha Stewart


This post is in partnership with Inc., which offers useful advice, resources, and insights to entrepreneurs and business owners. The article below was originally published at Inc.com.

Steve Jobs. Martha Stewart. Some bosses aren’t in it to be loved. Here’s how that works, and how it doesn’t.

1. Steve Jobs: The Perfectionist

Gave employees a higher purpose but was unsparing about their shortcomings.

2. Barry Diller: The Taskmaster

Embraces creative conflict but intimidates employees into pulling all-nighters.

3. Scott Rudin: The Hothead

Produced hits such as The Social Network and School of Rock; once fired an assistant for bringing him the wrong muffin.

4. Martha Stewart: The Control Freak

Made a fortune on her attention to detail but has trouble ceding control.

5. George Steinbrenner: The competitor

Core belief: “Winning is the most important thing in life, after breathing.”

How tough is too tough? Learn how some leaders still manage the old-school way: The Lost Art of Tough Love

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