Managing A new boss

With downsizing and restructuring becoming the buzzwords in organisations all over, change of boss is not uncommon these days. Many professionals find themselves reporting to a different person while being employed at the same company.

Dealing with a new boss when relationship with the former was good can be demanding, even stressful. In fact, the transition is not always easy, irrespective of the rapport with the old boss.

The arrival of a new leader is often accompanied with change in work culture, priorities and expectations. They may even review personal habits such as working hours, break time and private phone calls. However, instead of viewing the change as a frustrating inconvenience, it is best to accept it positively. Keep an open mind rather than stubbornly clinging on to how things used to be done. Forging a productive and rewarding relationship with the new boss can undoubtedly be a career-defining moment for any professional.

Get an edge
Do your homework by finding out as much as possible about the new boss before he/she actually takes over. Search the Internet for information they might have put on themselves or the organisation they are leaving. It will not only give some idea about their background but also of the differences in organisational culture. If he/she has been working in the same industry, talk to people who have worked with them. Speaking to former employees or colleagues can offer insight into the work style and temperament of the person. The more information you gather, the easier it will be to connect with the new boss and form a solid working relationship.

Expect adjustment period
Subsequent to accepting the boss as a different person begins the period of adjustment. Irrespective of the level of seniority, every person needs time to adjust to a new work environment. It would be unfair to write-off the new boss in the first few days as incapable or ineffective. Since he would need time to get acclimated don't expect him to know exactly how everything is going to go. Give the new boss a chance to settle down before trying to turn his attention to your aspirations. Be flexible to fit in with his needs and schedule, an effort that shall be definitely appreciated.

Set clear expectations
Get a clear picture of the boss’s expectations early on rather than putting it off. More than often the new boss will have significantly different expectations from the previous one. Projects that the former boss viewed as high priority may have suddenly lost their urgency. As a consequence sit down and make a list of what you expect from each other and the job. Expectations could be about working hours, mode of communication or keeping calendars. Take the initiative to ask for such a meeting if it is not forthcoming from the boss. A clear conversation will go a long way in reducing conflicts and avoiding discrepancies.

Volunteer for small tasks
Step forward to aid the boss with small tasks that will help him settle in the new role and work environment. Rather than waiting for directions or holding back thinking that it would mean sticking your nose into his business, volunteer. Alert him or her of your availability when they start putting their plan of action into place. Since volunteering for a big task could arouse their suspicion, choose jobs that nobody else wants. However, assist them on activities that will not take too much time so as not to ignore your own work. It will not only show that you are proactive but also give an opportunity to prove your reliability.

Rebuild professional image
With a new boss taking charge, it becomes irrelevant whether you got along with your previous boss or not. Recognise that past is the past and the current boss will judge you based on your ongoing relationship with him or her. As a consequence getting a new boss often means an opportunity to rebuild one’s professional image. Although past mistakes will not tarnish this new bond, trying to hide them may. Make a fresh start by building a work relationship based on honesty and trust.

Avoid comparisons
Although it is natural to compare the old boss with the new, refrain from doing so. Despite feeling bad about the change, especially if you liked your old boss, avoid pitting them against each other. Even comparisons that make the new boss look favoured should be avoided since it could still be seen as criticising the former. Make a mind shift by thinking of the boss as a new person with different priorities, tendencies and way of doing things. Instead of grumbling about the differences, learn from them and look for ways to bridge the gap. Greet the new boss with an open and non-judgmental attitude, giving him a fair chance to succeed.

Source : TRIBUNE INDIA