MANAGE YOUR BOSS
Advice from four top business people on how you should treat your boss
A
The Consultant
No boss likes nasty surprises. Thinking you can solve a serious problem before he or she finds out is a doomed strategy. Much better to inform your boss about the situation early on, together with your suggested solution. Also, remember that bosses like praise as much as any employee. Do this without making it obvious, if only to earn the right to criticise (constructively, of course). 'Consideration' is the key word. Treat bosses as you hope to be treated - it should help you to move up to the next level.
B
The Director
Of course there are all the formal things in managing your boss -ensuring that you come to meetings well prepared, that you have a good eye for detail, and so on. But you also need to distinguish effectively between things that are important and things that are merely small details.Bosses like it if you can see 'the big picture' because they want to be able to delegate.So it's all about psychology, as well as performance.
C
The Chairman
Bosses want people to understand their objectives, their way of working and the pressures they are under. If you can understand what sort of individual your boss is, it is easier to appreciate why certain reactions might arise, and thus avoid problems. Also, keep the lines of communication with your boss open.You need to receive ongoing feedback on whether your work is effective, asking about what you do not understand, and,if necessary, discussing personal issues from outside the workplace. When the gap between you is reduced, so are the difficulties.
D
The Chief Executive
Understand that a boss will want to take the glory when things go well. After all, they take ultimate responsibility, so they deserve some of the credit. Also, find out about your boss's outside interests, as this can help to improve the relationship. You may find you have an interest in common. Similarly,recognise that everyone is human, and there are times when a request from you may be unwelcome. Get to know your boss's Personal Assistant, who can advise you when it is a good time to talk to him or her.