How to Handle Your Manager | Job Tips
People don't quit their jobs; they quit their managers. If you've ever had a bad manager, you'll have your own (vehement) views on the subject, but the most common complaints include poor communication, unrealistic demands, bad listening skills, and lack of support. In the worst cases, a manager possesses a combination of all of these factors. The good news, however, is that it's normally within your power to improve the situation. These following tips can help you get along better with your manager.
People don't quit their jobs; they quit their managers. If you've ever had a bad manager, you'll have your own (vehement) views on the subject, but the most common complaints include poor communication, unrealistic demands, bad listening skills, and lack of support. In the worst cases, a manager possesses a combination of all of these factors. The good news, however, is that it's normally within your power to improve the situation. These following tips can help you get along better with your manager.
Establish Clear Communication
Most
problems in the workplace stem from bad communication. Therefore, if
you can improve the communication flow between you and your boss, you're
on your way to a much happier time at work.
Many
managers are under the impression that their expectations and goals
‘trickle down’ to their staff. This is seldom the case, and many
employees are left without a clear idea of what they are working toward.
If this is the case, try asking your manager for the information you
should be receiving, but be diplomatic. It's often best to schedule a
proper appointment. At the appointment, state why you're there and what
you want to achieve. If your productivity improves as a result of this
communication, your boss may have learned a useful lesson.
Set Goals Together
Whatever
problem you're experiencing with your manager, scheduling an
appointment is probably your first move. This is particularly true if
your boss is making unrealistic demands of you. If this is the case,
it's probably because s/he is unaware of what you're doing. Explain the
projects you have with a time estimate for each, and ask your manager to
help you prioritize what you have to do. Your manager may not be aware
of what your role requires, and when you politely let them know, you can
set goals together for future projects.
Make Sure You Are Heard
Bad
listening skills are often cited as an annoying trait of managers. It's
not that they don't communicate; rather, it’s that the communication is
one way. In this case, it is particularly important that you plan what
you are going to talk about before going ahead with a meeting. In
addition, don't leave the meeting until you have established what you
want to say. It may help to have notes visible to which you can refer,
thereby affirming that you have considered the meeting and areas of
discussion. You can even give your boss a copy in advance of the meeting
so there are no surprises. It will be good sign if s/he has taken the
trouble to read it!
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If All Else Fails, Adjust
Sometimes, even despite your best efforts, your manager refuses to change. If you find yourself in this situation and would prefer to stay in your current job, you will have no choice but to adjust to your manager’s style.
Most managers are motivated by one of three things: achievement, affiliation, or power. Observe and mirror your manager's primary motivator and you will get on his/her wavelength. If your boss is motivated by achievement, people issues will be a low priority, but targets will be paramount. If the major driving force is an affiliation, you need to think in people terms. In the case of power, be sure to tread lightly.
A little adjustment is natural in a work setting, but getting on your manager's wavelength is a big adaptation to make. Are you willing to learn different techniques and prioritize things that don't come naturally to you? Only you can make that evaluation. It can sometimes be easier to get another job than another working style.
If you have come to the point where working with your manager is no longer possible, browse our current jobs or talk to a AjiraLeo recruitment consultant to find a job and manager that fit you.
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