Practical Tips on How to Manage your Boss (Doing Things Her or His Way)
If you work for someone, then work for him.
Speak well of him and stand by the institution he represents.
Remember, an ounce of loyalty is worth a pound of cleverness.
If you must growl, condemn, and eternally find fault, resign your position and when you are on the outside, complain to your heart’s content.
But as long as you are a part of the institution do not condemn it. ~Elbert Hubbard
During my military cadet years in college, we were made to memorize those lines , and asked to recite before we conduct any ‘military meeting or assembly.’ I knew those lines by heart but never truly comprehend what they meant.Military organizations demand loyalty at all cost and at all times.
However, when I started my career in the corporate world, those famous lines by Hubbard evoked a deeper meaning. While any company expects their employees to be loyal, hence, you are made to sign non-disclosure policy; it is not demanded in the military sense. No wonder, it is lamentable to observe, that many employees are not loyal to their organizations and their bosses.
Do things your Boss' way
The second best way to manage your boss is by doing things his or her way.
Yeah, I can hear you protesting there.
But, I’m serious here. Do things your boss' way and you will never be wrong.
It does not negate your creativity if you follow orders to the letter like what a recruit would do to his Drill Sergeant. Contrary to popular opinion, you can still be creative while following instructions.
Lawful orders that are not contrary to morals should be obeyed at all times. A boss earned his rights to give orders and can demand fulfillment thereof. You may always suggest your way. However, if you want to manage your boss well, do it his / her way. In the end, it is his call. And it his responsibility. Good bosses will always take responsibility for the results or output of their people.
Now you may continue your protest. ^^
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Read Part 1 here
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4 Comments so far:
Of course, this doesn't mean going to him if you think you have a better idea. He might listen, he might not. He may already have a reason for not doing it the way you think it should be done. Listen to him...there's a reason he's the boss.
However, he might just see that you've got a good idea and let you try it. It never hurts to give and get feedback, but in the end, it's the boss's decision.
Bosses have always the prerogative over issues affecting your organization and on how things need to be done. Ideas when properly presented deserves a hearing and surely a sensible boss will take time to consider.
I agree with you there Jodith that it really never hurts to suggest.
Thanks for the good points you shared there.
Cheers!
Ah.. that sounds like sucking up to boss to me! :P
Office politics. I hate them. But play it right and you'll see fantastic results!
If you look at it that way, it is. However, in a positive perspective it is a simple way of synegizing with your boss. And there's nothing to lose in sucking it up but more to gain.
Office politics, however you hate it, will always be there. The key is playing your cards right, excelling in what you do, and making yourself of value to your organization. At the end of the day, what matters most is what you have contributed to your organizations' profitability.