Bosses generally don’t tend to stick around too long these days, and those who do, you probably wish they didn’t.
Frequently, bosses, being ambitious types, get promoted or move on to more exciting opportunities. That’s if they are good. If they are not so clever, they get fired or choose to spend more time with their family.
Regardless of why they go, their departure means that you are going to have a new boss to work for.
People commonly approach this event with a little curiosity:
- “I wonder what she will be like.”
- “I hope I’ll get on okay with him.”
Or, more seriously:
- “What will he think of my plans?”
- “I hope she will want me to continue my project.”
- “What will this mean for my work?”
Both of these approaches are reasonable, but they are missing something really important.
The first meeting with your new boss heralds the beginning of a new job. Jobs are far more than what you actually do. The relationships around them have a massive impact on your chances of success.
While you may be the incumbent, the relationship with your new boss is absolutely vital and should not be taken for granted. They have the power to make your work enjoyable, extremely stressful, or simple impossible.
So, here’s an idea for you, as you contemplate an audience with your new boss:
Treat it as a job interview for a fantastic new position.
Which means you have to think seriously about:
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- How to make a good first impression.
- The purpose and future direction of your role.
- How it adds value to the overall team and organisation’s strategy.
- What challenges and roadblocks need to be handled?
- How to demonstrate that you’re the best person for the role.
Of course, you are already in the role and have been doing it for some time, so this should be pretty straightforward to prepare for.
Whatever you do, don’t settle back on the excuse that it is really up to the boss to determine those things. Yes that is true, but most bosses need people to show initiative and make things happen. You don’t have to nail your colours so closely to the mast that you cannot flex as you learn what the boss has in mind. But you do need to demonstrate clear and confident thinking (“Subject to the direction you’d like to take my role…”).
Which reminds me, you also need to do a little detective work around your new boss. For instance:
- Where are they coming from?
- What is their career history, and future?
- What projects have they gained recognition for in the past? Or censure?
- Why were they picked for the job?
- What are they bringing to the role, and what gaps might they have?
- Who do they know around the organisation?
Basically, find out as much as you can about the new boss. Always give them the benefit of the doubt, although make sure to use the intelligence you gather intelligently.
The idea here is to maximise this golden opportunity. Get off to a flying start with your new boss, so that you can ensure that you are able to deliver great value doing what you do best.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]