adminYou need to understand their strengths, weaknesses, work ethic, management style and get an overall appreciation of their perception on many things.
I must say, I have personally managed to work these out to manage my boss but this has taken some time of understudying.
My advice would be for you to take time to cultivate this vital relationship.
Do not get me wrong, the phrase “managing your boss” is not an apprehensive term.
It could just shock you a bit if you are in these traditional top-down managed type of organisations where the boss rules and reigns supreme.
It simply refers to a process where you make a conscious decision and effort to work with your superior to achieve results that will benefit you, him/her and the company.
A chap I knew got fired after decisions that his boss made backfired on him.
A lot of misunderstandings and bad feelings developed to the point that in a hearing, the boss simply refused to okay the decisions he had made and blamed him for all the costly mistakes the company had incurred.
There are times when someone gets promoted into a position of leadership; this may also put a spotlight on your own insecurities.
It’s no use quitting your job because of a tough boss.
One person once told me that his boss is super energetic, is results oriented and can reach great heights within a short period of time.
The manager must step up the game and amass a lot of business knowledge in diverse disciplines.
There are also those bosses that require you to work over weekends and call you during odd times.
Learn to find ways of managing them to get the best for yourself.
How about if you report to two different bosses, each with their unique management style, note that both must be managed to their own preferences.
To do that, the manager must first know what is most important, and then be able to respond in a way the boss understands and prefers.
The reality is not easy to do.
The delivery method for managing your boss has many variations.
It is up to the manager to learn the boss’ style.
But it doesn’t stop there. You also need to manage your boss’s boss, the board, and/or shareholders.
Also determine whether your boss is detail-oriented, action-oriented or outcome-oriented, you need to make sure all your interactions with them fit their preferences.
Timing is very important. Know the best time to approach your boss to discuss an issue or request something in order to avoid rejection or an unexpected response.
Make sure your boss is not caught by surprise, especially in meetings attended with upper management.
Make sure that there is a free flow of information.
It tends to displace your role and makes you irrelevant if information that is expected come from you comes out from another source.
Never underestimate your boss — it may cost you your job.
Always analyse and filter huge amounts of data and statistics, and present the useful and actionable information to your boss.
I always tell my subordinates that they must not always present me with problems. It is commendable if you come up with solutions as well.
Also appreciate that for you to manage your boss, you must be able to manage yourself first.
Avoid career limiting moves that can ruin your career.
What other methods do you use to manage your boss with integrity?
Till next week, may God richly bless you.
Shelter Chieza is an advisor in management issues. She can be contacted at [email protected]
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