We all have bosses.
Most of us have bosses who are formally ‘in charge of us.’ Or, more likely, we have someone who influences, maybe even controls, our work life but, since they are NOT our direct boss, we think we can avoid their impact.
The easiest example to cite is the person directly above your boss. Quite obviously, this ‘boss’ is someone you need to please, satisfy and react to. The better you help your boss manage his or her boss, the better. Do this wrong and you lose the trust and respect of your boss. Do it right…here is how:
1. Keep your boss informed every step of the way. Never assume those (your boss and his boss) two are talking and coordinating your work output. In fact, assume they are not talking.
2. Never, ever assume this means you are being groomed to replace your boss. This is so tempting to think…after all, you are thinking that “finally, someone recognizes my natural abilities around here.” Leave your ego at home.
3. Do not dis your boss. I realize you don’t like him, and his boss is apparently not too thrilled with him either. But don’t go there. The more supportive you are of him, the better. Way better.
4. Ask your boss for his help. This is more than point number 1. Do not find yourself being isolated, no matter how important the ‘project.’
5. Don’t brag about this new relationship to others. This will spell disaster.
6. Lastly, don’t read too much into a simple request. In more informal organizations, some bosses just like to make simple requests of people and they don’t particularly care about the ‘chain of command.” It might mean that you were simply the one who answered the phone or nodded your head at the right time.
The boss of your boss is the easiest one to handle. The real mouse in the room is when you don’t recognize another person’s importance and choose to ignore a request. A CEO request comes to mind…or, someone clearly closer to customers. Ignore this person at your peril.
6 users commented in " Who Is Your Real Boss? "
This is a really good, common-sense post. You have a knack!
Thanks Conrad…I appreciate your feedback, since most of it is so positive. JK>
I agree with Conrad–very good stuff.
Gl has more than a knack—he has the third eye vision
I have often made some of these very mistakes, and hindsight can be painful. (dis-ing the boss is like biting the hand that feeds)
Could the two bosses are owner and customer? or (Ying and yang) as I refer to them. I easily identify with the customer, as GL would say to my peril.
Then again I represent the lowly middle management
Hello Mike…what I was trying to say was that often times, I have noticed, that someone closer to customers or better said, someone with revenue responsiblity…should be listened to no matter what. For if you ignore this person, and they perceive you as being a hindrance to the attainment of sales…be prepared. I didnt say that very well.
I think another good piece of advice is to always watch for the person that everyone looks to when it comes time to make a decision in a meeting. Sometimes it’s not really evident who holds true power…but when all eyes switch to that one person…then you know you need to pay attention. Great post. I just found this blog and will be visiting often.
Anita Bruzzese
http://www.45things.com
Thanks for stopping by Anita…so true. Great comment.
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