Posted on Sat, May. 23, 2009 10:15 PM
How to survive a new boss
Colleagues sometimes ask if my column topics grow from interactions
in the newsroom. At the same time, readers ask if I’d visited their workplaces.
Clearly, career issues are universal. But, in full disclosure, today’s subject does hit home.
We’re
getting a new business editor starting Tuesday. So, for my colleagues —
and anyone else out there in a similar work situation — here are tips
on “How to Survive a New Boss.”
The points below paraphrase suggestions from Rebecca Schalm, psychologist and executive practice leader at RHR International.
•A new boss is like getting a parent: You didn’t get to choose. But new bosses do get to choose who is on their teams.
•You
will be tested, particularly over the first three months. What the new
boss thinks of you is more important than what you think of the new
boss.
•Do not act as if nothing has changed. It has.
•Your
new boss has ideas about what’s not working or about what gaps need to
be filled. Take time to look at the operation with a critical eye so
that you might see what he or she sees.
•Be honest with your self-appraisal. Do others think you measure up?
•If you recognize the need for improvement, now isn’t too late. Make changes before your new boss demands them.
•Study
your new boss. What is his or her preferred communication style? A boss
who hates interruptions may respond better to e-mail. A boss who
doesn’t answer e-mail may want you to schedule a meeting or just drop
by.
•Help your boss understand your work and communication
styles. (That doesn’t mean your preferences will win, but at least you
can make your wishes known.)
•“Get on the bus.” Don’t wait for an invitation to be a team player.
•Acknowledge that the new boss is under more performance stress than you are. Help him or her “chalk up some wins early.”
To these I’d add: Don’t be a brown-noser. Help, yes. But be honest if a new idea or directive isn’t working.
Written by Diane Stafford
"All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed, second it is violently opposed, and third, it is accepted as self-evident."
Arthur Schopenhauer, Philosopher (1788-1860)
