How To Talk To Your Boss — 7 Smart Ideas To Keep Your Career on Track

I always felt that there were certain taboos when I was talking to my boss. I would never have made remarks about how the office was run or how some of his or her decisions were damaging our morale and motivation.

On a less dramatic note, I was very reluctant to talk about office feuds, tasks I hated and my own failures.

When I became a manager myself, I was seeing this from the other side of the fence. I was acutely aware that certain issues would never be discussed with me. They had imposed a sort of self-censorship.

We all know that certain topics such as sex, gossip, religion, politics, and your dream job are taboo. That’s the easy part.

I was also aware that many incompetent managers (mostly men) are still stalking workplaces as outlined in a book called: Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders?: (And How to Fix It). Gender bias may be one reason although I firmly believe that any manager or leader needs to be focused on being competent and caring.

“In most cases being a good boss means hiring talented people and then getting out of their way.” ― Tina Fey, Bossypants

Here are 7 smart ideas to help you talk to your boss

1. Why don’t we try doing X… to improve Y?

Streamlining procedures and working smarter is not decided by the boss. Let him know that you and your coworkers have been brainstorming some ideas and just want to experiment with it.

Making the best use of computer programs will save time all round. There are loads of management tools to help you manage tasks, report on progress and tons more. When you waste each other’s time by asking for info, one of these tools can be a lifesaver. Your boss will appreciate your initiative.

Popular programs at the moment are Hubstaff Tasks, Asana, and Monday.com.

2. I really enjoy doing X.

Why should you tell your boss that? One good reason is that she has actually noticed and will praise you on the positive results. Secondly, she may note that you could be in line for a new project because you are combining skills with enthusiasm. It could also be an indicator for promotion or team leading.

3. I really need help with X to achieve my Y goal.

Very few of us are willing to show where we are weak or failing. But when you show your boss that you are determined to real a goal, you also have to say what extra help you need to avoid burnout and possibly a missed deadline. This can also be an eye-opener for the boss who may be completely aware of what is missing in office procedures or resources.

It’s not whining. It shows that you have a laser-sharp focus and that you are not wasting time or cutting corners. It also shows where you may need to develop your skills set and your boss can organize some training in that area.

4. I’d really like feedback more often

Did you know that only about one-third of American workers actually feel engaged and motivated in their work? The State of the American Workplace Gallup poll for 2017 shows that

“Only one-third of U.S. employees are engaged in their work and workplace. And only about one in five say their performance is managed in a way that motivates them to do outstanding work.”

We can see what is missing. 20% are getting the right feedback while 80% are floundering in a sea of despair and indifference.

This is why it is so important to get feedback which should be praise and gratitude or at least constructive criticism so you can do better the next time round.

You can start by writing an email and stating:-

· I would like to plan a meeting to get your feedback on Project X

· I would like your input on what is going well and any advice on predicted problems/deadlines/resources and so on.

· I need guidance on the Y solution. Is this feasible and what would you watch out for?

· Offer to fix a time via the meeting planner so that she can actually confirm that this will happen.

5. Why don’t we do up the office?

If your boss is wise, she will use this to try to improve the working environment. There could be a need for a more attractive environment such as more plants and lighter colors, not to mention improved lighting.

There could also be an element of stress where you feel you are under a lot of pressure. Perhaps the noise levels are too high and there may be problems with heating or cooling.

6. Are you going to need any help with X?

Most bosses will appreciate an offer of help. It could be a win-win because it will give you a chance to show how well you can work and also show off your skills set. This could be the first step on the career ladder.

7. I have just had a great idea.

Some bosses say they have an open-door policy and that would mean an invitation to pop in with suggestions and ideas. But many employees shy away from this. If your boss is encouraging you, take advantage as it is a great way to get to know each other better.

This will not work with a boss who is confrontational and tends to be a bully. I have written a post here on how to deal with a bully boss.

“Bosses shape how people spend their days and whether they experience joy or despair, perform well or badly, or are healthy or sick. Unfortunately, there are hoards of mediocre and downright rotten bosses out there, and big gaps between the best and the worst.” ― Robert I. Sutton, Good Boss, Bad Boss: How to Be the Best… and Learn from the Worst