Adjusting to Your New Boss

by Alex A. Kecskes

In this hectic economy, even bosses get laid off. So don't be surprised if you suddenly find yourself reporting to a different person in the next few months. The key to your survival will be how well you get along with your new boss. Remember, many of these new supervisors/managers will be tasked with "trimming" the workforce. So he or she will have his or her eye on you. Some survival tips:

Accommodate. Realize that every boss is different in how they run the office, prepare reports and meet department objectives. Be quick to adjust to these changes without complaint.

Offer to Help. New bosses don't know the "lay of the land" like you do. They may take some time to acclimate to the new office, its procedures and politics. Lend a helping hand if you see he or she is struggling with something. Bring him or her up to speed on any upcoming deadlines, meetings or projects. Let your boss know about your skills and talents--but showcase these talents only when needed for a specific task (to avoid the appearance of brown-nosing).

Be Patient. Give your new boss time to adjust. Provide him or her with timely updates. End of day or end of week meetings can be useful here. They provide you the opportunity to make sure projects are online and progressing as they must. And they give your new boss the opportunity to see what you've been doing. Remember, he or she will be evaluating every employee under him or her.

Stay Alert. Don't assume things will move along like they did with your old boss. Try to get a feel for how he or she operates. Is your new boss a micromanager? An extreme multi-tasker? Or a macro manager? Does he or she prefer to communicate via email, face to face, or phone? You may not get the answer to these questions immediately, but by staying alert and on the ball, you'll be a step ahead.

The goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible and to make you look supportive and competent in your boss's eyes.

For a lighter perspective, check out this video:

Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Nexxt.