Yes, boss
R.C. Sharma

Ambitious candidates normally concentrate only on getting a good job. Little consideration is given to the fact that besides getting acquainted with the new work culture, it is important to get along with the boss. Among other things, a close working relationship with him is a must. Here are some tips to develop a cordial working relationship with the new boss.

Mutual agreement

Right from the beginning, set the tasks and mutually reach an agreement with the boss to avoid any conflicts later on. Clarity of goals will help you to eliminate any gap or miscommunication, and facilitate focus. Observe your boss’s style of working and align both your styles for fruitful results. Identify and request for resources that you require to complete your work. Justify their importance as well.

Meet expectations

Execute tasks to satisfy your boss’s expectations. Complete them ahead of the assigned time.

If you have any difficulty in accomplishing a task, approach your boss with an apt rationale and buy time well in advance. Do not request for time after the deadline as it may be considered an excuse.

Right to differ

You have a right to differ on various issues with the boss. Voice your concerns, even if they initially go unheard or are dismissed. This displays that you have an independent mind. Do not ditto your boss’s actions thoughtlessly.

Report on time

Discuss reporting schedules with the boss, which could be on a daily or weekly basis. Organise your work nicely, accurately and record every single transaction. Submit a comprehensive report.

Do not leak out secrets

Nothing annoys a boss more than subordinates disclosing information pertaining to the work or team to other colleagues.

Never take advantage of the fact that you have more information. You only will be a loser in the process.

Articulate your views

Like colleagues, some bosses are also problematic. If you face any wrath despite being efficient and the ideal subordinate, then discuss the matter frankly with the boss, expressing your feelings. If you do not receive a satisfactory response, discuss your problem with the higher authorities. Most employees avoid doing this due to a fear of blame and grudge. The top management knows that authority down the line can be misused and will willingly set things right. Ensure that you have proper facts to substantiate your points.

Help solve problems

Become a troubleshooter and work to solve your boss’s problems. Although, your accomplishments will be seen as your boss’s accomplishments, and you may not get instantly the credit you deserve, your boss will keep it in mind and when there is an opportunity, he may reward you in recommending advance increments, or writing an excellent ACR for you.

Win his confidence

Win over your boss’s confidence by giving him the feeling that you are a team player and you he one on whom he or she can depend to make his/her job easier. Apprise your boss of what is happening rather than take action without permission and regretting later. Know your position in the organisation and stay within your jurisdiction. Your boss has the final say. Try to find out what your boss’s goals are, then help him achieve those through your contributions. Don’t go to the seniors, ignoring your boss. Respect communication channels set by your boss. Thus, you will win his/her confidence.

Be accountable

Bosses value employees who take responsibility, follow things through and meet deadlines. If you do this, you will get noticed. When you succeed, take credit. But when you fall short or make a mistake, be ready to admit it and take the discredit too.

Know you r job inside out and, if necessary, put in extra time to work things out, then present options to the boss, who decides if any changes in policy or procedures are required.

Show commitment

Don’t take time off except for real illness or emergencies. Avoid idle gossip and office chitchat. Be proud of your contribution to the overall success of the company you work for.

Refrain from exhibiting behaviour which could be viewed as fawning. Also, do not indulge in boss’s wrongdoing. Seek guidance from your boss to avoid a condescending attitude and make him feel important. Also, think about what went right or wrong in your previous assignment with the boss and apply your lessons to the new situation for fruitful working.