Put Yourself in Your Boss’ Chair
Email this article to a friend 
Print this Article
Interviewing for a job is like dating-you meet a few different people and pick someone based on attraction and personality. And just as you’d break out the sexy jeans and extra lip gloss on a first date, you should put your best face forward for a new boss. But problems can arise when character flaws are exposed that threaten to shatter your dreams of a happily-ever-after-except you can’t always just break up with a boss and find someone new.
You don’t have to fall in love with your boss, but you do need to cultivate an environment of mutual respect and common goals. Everyone behaves differently, so it’s crucial to develop strategies that will enable you to maintain a working relationship with anyone, and never let conflicts prevent you from getting ahead. And to win her loyalty, trust, and respect, you need to get inside her head, and understand how to work together so you both succeed.
The best way to establish a firm foundation is at the beginning. Have an informal chat with your new boss, and discuss both of your expectations and goals for the foreseeable future. While she’s talking, take note of her communication style-does she tend to get into long discussions or does she rattle off little sound bites? If you’re unsure about something she says, make it a practice to repeat it back to her, so you don’t fall into a pattern of misunderstandings. Also, grab a notebook and start to keep a master log of projects and tasks that you’ve been assigned and completed-you can easily flip it open and keep your boss updated. It will soon become obvious that you’re capable of handling a more important role.
If you’ve worked hard over time but haven’t yet received any rewards, set another time to meet, and be frank about how you feel. Give her a chance to offer feedback first-she may have been planning to promote you but she’s just been distracted. If she isn’t responding, review the original expectations of your position, and ask for specific ways in which you can earn that promotion. Don’t be afraid to call her out on her original promises-you’ve earned them!
There are some bosses who are known solely for their tempers, attitudes, and general nastiness (The Devil Wears Prada, anyone?) If you find yourself reporting to Satan, act fast. Never allow a boss to steal your ideas, work you to death, or abuse you emotionally. Contact your HR department and ask to be transferred within the company, or immediately begin interviewing elsewhere-you live in the real world, not a movie, so any happy ending is up to you!