Dealing with a Difficult Boss? Can't seem to make your boss happy? Here are some tips.
1) Start with clear expectations. You can't know what your boss wants from you unless you ask. Many managers don't make their expectations clear, even if they think they have. Have a meeting with your manager to discuss expectations.
2) Document expectations by outlining success measures. Ask for examples of what it means to be successful in the responsibilities you are given and the goals you have outlined for the year.
3) Follow through. Make sure to follow up, meeting with your manager at least once every two weeks to see if you are meeting expectations, or if those expectations have changed.
4) Exceed expectations. Ask yourself, what would make your bosses job easier, or less stressful? Do those things and surprise your manager with your ability to think ahead and forecast what is coming from their boss.
5) Document. If you are in a situation with a boss you will never please, it may be time to find your way out. Our coaches can help with that. In the meantime, document everything in writing in case there is a performance issue on the horizon.
Remember, managing is a skill and so is "managing up". The more you practice putting yourself in your manager's shoes and trying to mirror their preferred form of communication the more success you will have with them. Keep in mind preferred communication can mean, how often you communicate (hourly, daily, weekly), the medium of communication (in-person/zoom/email/etc.) as well as at what level of detail to provide (does your manager want all the details, just some, or a summary?).
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