Getting Your Boss to Listen… It’s Possible
16 May 2012
Read by 1640 persons
1. Present a Well-Structured Argument
Don’t burst into your supervisor’s office in a fit of rage to vent your anger and bitterness. This would only worsen your situation. There’s nothing more counterproductive than speaking emotionally without preparing your argument. You might be abrupt, aggressive, or even rude, and you’ll soon regret it. To be heard, prepare a precise, well-structured argument with solid evidence. Use numbers, specific data, anticipate your manager’s comments, and show that your decision is the result of thorough, well-considered thought.
2. Tailor Your Communication
You can’t change people. It’s better to question yourself and work on how you communicate to ensure your message reaches its target more effectively. Everyone is different and doesn’t respond to the same arguments. Adapt to your boss’s style and how they work. If they prefer written communication, write them an email to brief them on ongoing projects and request a meeting to discuss them in detail. If they tend to be controlling, make them think that the ideas partly came from them… This isn’t about manipulating anyone but respecting their personality.
3. Choose Your Moment
Approach your manager when they seem relaxed and in a good mood, not stressed, doubtful, or angry. Observe them and find a time when they are most available. Avoid Mondays, the start of the week, as it depends on how their weekend was.
4. Be Mindful of Their Sensitivities
The relationship between a manager and their team is often affected by power struggles. Many managers are insecure about their authority. Be considerate of your supervisor’s sensitivities and make them see you as an ally, not a threat. When making a comment or suggestion, don’t act like you know everything and be careful of your word choice. Try using ‘we’ or ‘us’ instead of ‘I,’ to show teamwork.
5. Be Reliable
To be heard, you need to be trustworthy and credible. Maintain a professional image. Your manager will naturally turn to those they see as serious, independent, and able to suggest improvements. They’ll be more likely to listen to your complaints if you can also offer alternative solutions. Your manager isn’t just someone you offload responsibilities onto; they should be a true collaborator, building a relationship of trust and synergy. Prove you’re reliable, and it will pay off.
6. Position Yourself Wisely
Before speaking, make sure you have the necessary expertise. Avoid talking just for the sake of it or pretending to know something you don’t. Know when to be quiet and communicate only to add value. Don’t automatically oppose what’s said, as it may irritate your boss and colleagues. But if you are knowledgeable and an expert on a subject, don’t hesitate to speak up. Using some technical jargon can sometimes make you seem more expert.
7. Be Smart About Conflict
Don’t start a war every time you disagree; you’ll only get a reputation as a troublemaker. Know when to let things go and compromise. If a decision doesn’t suit you, consider the implications before opposing it. Remember that constant opposition is seen as a rejection of authority. Without being a yes-man, be fair and measured in your words.
Article written by The ReKrute.com Team
Posted on May 16, 2012.
Don’t burst into your supervisor’s office in a fit of rage to vent your anger and bitterness. This would only worsen your situation. There’s nothing more counterproductive than speaking emotionally without preparing your argument. You might be abrupt, aggressive, or even rude, and you’ll soon regret it. To be heard, prepare a precise, well-structured argument with solid evidence. Use numbers, specific data, anticipate your manager’s comments, and show that your decision is the result of thorough, well-considered thought.
2. Tailor Your Communication
You can’t change people. It’s better to question yourself and work on how you communicate to ensure your message reaches its target more effectively. Everyone is different and doesn’t respond to the same arguments. Adapt to your boss’s style and how they work. If they prefer written communication, write them an email to brief them on ongoing projects and request a meeting to discuss them in detail. If they tend to be controlling, make them think that the ideas partly came from them… This isn’t about manipulating anyone but respecting their personality.
3. Choose Your Moment
Approach your manager when they seem relaxed and in a good mood, not stressed, doubtful, or angry. Observe them and find a time when they are most available. Avoid Mondays, the start of the week, as it depends on how their weekend was.
4. Be Mindful of Their Sensitivities
The relationship between a manager and their team is often affected by power struggles. Many managers are insecure about their authority. Be considerate of your supervisor’s sensitivities and make them see you as an ally, not a threat. When making a comment or suggestion, don’t act like you know everything and be careful of your word choice. Try using ‘we’ or ‘us’ instead of ‘I,’ to show teamwork.
5. Be Reliable
To be heard, you need to be trustworthy and credible. Maintain a professional image. Your manager will naturally turn to those they see as serious, independent, and able to suggest improvements. They’ll be more likely to listen to your complaints if you can also offer alternative solutions. Your manager isn’t just someone you offload responsibilities onto; they should be a true collaborator, building a relationship of trust and synergy. Prove you’re reliable, and it will pay off.
6. Position Yourself Wisely
Before speaking, make sure you have the necessary expertise. Avoid talking just for the sake of it or pretending to know something you don’t. Know when to be quiet and communicate only to add value. Don’t automatically oppose what’s said, as it may irritate your boss and colleagues. But if you are knowledgeable and an expert on a subject, don’t hesitate to speak up. Using some technical jargon can sometimes make you seem more expert.
7. Be Smart About Conflict
Don’t start a war every time you disagree; you’ll only get a reputation as a troublemaker. Know when to let things go and compromise. If a decision doesn’t suit you, consider the implications before opposing it. Remember that constant opposition is seen as a rejection of authority. Without being a yes-man, be fair and measured in your words.
Article written by The ReKrute.com Team
Posted on May 16, 2012.
