As CEO of a (very small) business, I now understand the incredible challenges associated with having to allocate limited resources and communicate effectively to my colleagues and clients. It’s a lot. Sometimes I blush when I think of how hard I was on some of my managers. I assumed they should know everything and became impetuous when they weren’t “there for me.”
From this new perspective I offer you my best advice to managing your boss: It’s hard up there! He or she doesn’t always know what to do. Choosing between options can be like trying to figure out which of two little kids is responsible for a fight. And making sure you tell everyone the right things, at the right time, all the time. It’s a lot. Here are some tips:
- Consider the boss’s circumstances — New to the job, long-distance, many direct reports — and consider how that may make their job harder
- Know how your boss behaves, especially under stress. When he or she exhibits that behavior, keep an even keel. Consider it may be more about them than you, and see what you can do to reduce their tension.
- Anticipate their needs. What are some possible decision paths and consequences of what you are asking for? What other limitations might your boss need to consider?
- Know what influences your boss. This is probably at least in part influencing their own boss. In addition, does your boss like public acknowledgement? Knowledge about cutting edge trends?
- Trust. Expense accounts, loyalty to your boss in situations with other stake-holders, and responsiveness are just a few. And if you ever disappoint your boss, make sure you clear the air.
- Work hard and make sure to occasionally remind your boss of your contribution. Everyone is moving fast and if you want to move ahead, let your boss know it too.
When it comes to the boss, our first response is not always empathy. Sometimes because we don’t have the easiest boss, but often because it’s hard to imagine that accomplishment doesn’t mean omniscience. With greater responsibility comes greater challenges. Keeping that in mind will shift the way you manage up.
All my best,
Claire