Archive for the ‘Career Goals’ Category
More on the Downsized Office, “Surprise Boss”
14February 2009
As I mentioned in my last blog, layoffs are reshuffling people and departments constantly. Many employees don’t know what to expect from day to day, including how this environment will impact their own job duties. Flexibility is the word of the day. But when you have a newly “inaugurated” boss as a result of a downsized office, there are several steps you can take to mitigate stress.
I wrote to self-proclaimed “Jumpy” last time, who asked about such a situation. I’ll take this opportunity to elaborate further. First, realize that it’s common for a new boss to want to know more about the projects you’re working on, and to wonder just how much management you need. (This assumes that micromanagement hasn’t gone into full gear!) Besides sitting down and communicating with your new “surprise” boss about any and all pertinent issues, here are five tips to enhance your job security and career advancement:
1. Have a new employee mindset. Forget the ways that you used to or always did things, or the ways your old boss did them. Pretend it’s your first day. Ask questions and listen.
2. Watch closely how your new manager operates, and ask your peers for information about his or her working style. Observe how your boss interacts with others. Be a sponge. Remember, information is the currency of self-empowerment and a key to your advancement.
3. Be a resource. Go the extra mile and roll up your sleeves. Know that your boss and colleagues are doing the same. This economy dictates that everyone wear more hats - and so become more proactive in helping out where possible. That said, set reasonable limits to maintain your health and peace of mind - or you won’t be of any help to yourself or anyone else!
4. Know that your new supervisor is likely overwhelmed, too, perhaps as a result of assuming the roles of two or more people. The more compassionate, efficient and focused you are, the more indispensable you become.
5. Focus on work. Avoid the temptation to be distracted by, or become involved with, gossip, rumors, politics or fear. Just do good work; it always counts the most.
Big changes in the workplace or in your career are difficult to navigate at first, but if you can tough it out, better times do eventually follow.
Best regards,
Lynn Taylor
My Newly Inaugurated Boss
30January 2009
Dear Lynn,
My boss was just laid off last week. Suddenly I have a new one, who got pulled over from another department, and is now doing two jobs. She’s totally different from my former supervisor, who I loved. She literally stands behind me and watches me work. It makes me sweat! I’m not sure she likes me, and I don’t want to be the next one out. Help!
– Jumpy
Dear Jumpy,
Lately, many people have new bosses due to consolidation and layoffs. Because a number of managers are now responsible for the jobs and duties of those laid off, it can sometimes feel like a “potluck” in terms of who your boss might be tomorrow - only a lot less festive. However, our country has inaugurated a new boss, too, so consider change as “the only constant” - and remember that change can bring opportunity, if you let it. It’s solely dependent on your mindset and actions, especially in the office.
I’m going to address “the sudden new boss” syndrome in my next blog because it’s become so relevant in a downsized corporate environment. But I’ll quickly point out a couple things here. First the good news. On the bright side, your boss may be trying to figure out how much supervision feels right for both of you, because it’s early in the game. But if you’re now being watched 24/7 by a more senior TOT™ (Terrible Office Tyrant) who is evaluating your every move, that’s a different matter. It’s time to diplomatically and constructively speak up - so you can perform your job (and save your sanity!)
If you haven’t done so already, offer to have a meeting with your new boss, maybe over lunch, about how you can best meet her objectives. You may have already addressed more superficial or project-focused matters in an orientation. But your means of collaborating is equally important. Without communicating this openly, it’s hard to be productive. One last bit of good news: you’re not the only one sweating this – which is why I’ll be addressing it in more detail. Stay cool!
Best regards,
Lynn
Got a TOT™? You’re not alone! Dare to share your story at the TOT Blog with other TOT tamers in the making, while Lynn helps you: cope with difficult or childish bosses and office politics, and humanize your workplace™. Post your question for Lynn, and she will try her best to answer it in an upcoming TOT Tamer Advice Column or blog. Be sure to visit the Tame Your TOT™ website.
Turning A Good Job Into A Great Job
31July 2008
You spend over one-third of your day at work if you are lucky! Just like everything else in life, you need to enjoy what you do and that includes work. You probably already feel that while your job may have its ups-and-downs, it’s a pretty good job. However, when you spend that much time at work, you can do better than simply good.
Loving your job means being genuinely happy. It’s much more than trying to muster a smile. In a truly Great Job, you should be enthusiastic about your work. You should feel challenged by your job and you should have opportunities for greater rewards ahead of you (like a promotion or a raise).
Sound easier said than done? It can be, but you know what? You’re worth it! I’ve just posted an article called Turning A Good Job Into A Great Job at the Tame Your TOT site. Take some time and read it over, and think about what you can do to have a Great Job.
Best regards,
Lynn
Managing Up: Communication Is The Key
30May 2008
Although having a childish boss might make you want to tear your hair out, you can take steps to improve the situation. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing some tips about Managing Up. The first one is all about communication.
When dealing with your manager, whether he’s a Terrible Office Tyrant™ or an ideal boss, you should establish a good communication path. Keep your conversations brief, but creative and appealing. Keep communications positive. Set up weekly meetings to devise new goals together and update him on your progress. Study his patterns so you can approach him at the most opportune time. Be polite, even if he’s blowing his top. And when your boss is behaving perfectly, show your gratitude and give compliments. After all, it’s better to reinforce good behavior than to spend your whole career avoiding bad behavior!
Best Regards,
Lynn
Visit the Tame Your TOT™ site at www.tameyourtot.com.
