NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Americans will choose between John Kerry and George Bush when they vote for president Nov. 2, but another government official outranks them both as the most preferred boss among seven prominent leaders, according to a survey released Monday.

Powell tops the list of best perceived bosses, outranking his boss. Image source: U.S. State Department.

A survey of 100 human resource executives found that Secretary of State Colin Powell tops the list, followed by Microsoft (Research) co-founder Bill Gates, according to the study conducted by outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

After Powell and Gates, the HR execs picked Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, real estate mogul Donald Trump, talk-show host David Letterman, Senator Kerry and President Bush.

"Obviously, everyone has his or her own ideas about what makes a good boss, but there are certain characteristics that most good bosses possess," said Challenger CEO John Challenger in a written statement.

"They are typically good motivators. They know how to be tough at times, yet know how to reward and recognize good performance. They treat their employees fairly and with respect," he added.

The HR executives were presented with the list and then asked to rank the candidates on a number basis, with one indicating the most preferred boss.

The study noted that there are probably just a handful of people who work under Powell.

But the firm believes most people would probably agree that he presents a public image that exudes the qualities of a good manager.

Before heading the State Department, Powell was in charge of the millions who serve in the nation's military as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.