On Monday we wrote about a common complaint we hear: But I have a “bad” boss. In our Blog we discussed options – one of which was learning how to work (and cope) with your boss. In today’s Quick Tips we present information to help you identify your boss’ style and once this is done, how to work with it to your advantage.
Li Xin Bai posits that there are basically three types of leaders:
• A “hands on leader”, who takes the lead on everything. They are the micromanagers, the poor delegators, and the ones who seek and need control. They believe that only if they are involved will the job get done correctly.
• A “hands off leader”, who delegates and lets you get on with the job. Only when you are having issues do they step in to offer help and advice. They offer minimal feedback.
• And, a “visionary leader”, who defines the direction and allows you the freedom to find the best way to achieve the objective. These leaders empower their employees.
If you are working for a hands on leader, do not resist, as it will not work. Instead, invite the leader to work with you (the leader will do so whether you invite her in or not) on your assignments. Keep him informed, ask his opinion, and listen well and be willing to follow. Take advantage of his experience and insights and do your best to build and maintain an amenable relationship. If your boss is hostile, abusive or inexperienced, talk with a trusted mentor in the organization. Dealing with a difficult boss is a challenge but it is also possible to find a way to work with him if you like your role and organization, nor do not have an alternative.
If your boss is a hands off leader, be sure that your work is done and done well. You need to be self-motivated (and self-confident in your abilities) as it is unlikely that the boss will be checking up on you. But be ready for a quick update and an explanation of what you are working on and your progress when the boss calls. If you have issues, questions or need help, take the initiative and contact the boss and ask for help. (Don’t let your ego or fear get in the way to ask questions and seek clarification.)
With a visionary leader, you are fortunate, and in a very good position, as long as you perform well. A visionary leader has great confidence and trust in her team to perform and to perform well. But you must demonstrate your competence and that you deserve the trust given to you – and you do this by consistently great performance.
Regardless of the type of boss you have, you must manage your emotions regarding the boss. Un-managed emotions will lead to self-sabotaging behavior. (We reference this as being “being out of the effective zone.” And that is your issue not the boss’). Also you must be proactive with your boss. Raise issues and concerns in a positive way and offering a solution for every issue raised.
Copyright 2010 Kubica and LaForest
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