You got a new boss! What now?

You may get a new boss as part of a new job or you may just be assigned a new boss in an organizational change or even in a restructure. All the same, it’s a big change that you should adapt to as quickly as possible, and make the best of it. I talked about Conquering the New Position where we talked of some of these scenarios. Today I’ll be dedicating my post to the leader that is facing a new manager or head.

First, where’s your new boss from

The answer to this question is very important because it will make a big difference. Take some time to learn about your boss’ background, experience, and management style. Not only should you google him if you need to., but also ask, do any of your connections know them? This can help you better understand their expectations and how to work with them effectively.

If it’s a foreign boss from another country, he will encounter cultural differences. Take a look at some of my previous posts if you want to review some of these differences.

If they are from another company, again there can be a corporate culture change for them too. What’s more, if they’re from another area, or have been promoted, the new boss is facing the challenges of a new team. 

Be crystal clear with them

From the book, The First 90 days ¹ (considering these are your first days with your boss), some very important points to consider are:

• “Clarify mutual expectations early and often”. Define together with your boss what they expect you to do within your role and responsibilities. Furthermore, this can help ensure you’re both on the same page and working towards the same goals.
• “Negotiate timelines for diagnosis and action planning”: Create a plan together.
• “Aim for early wins in areas important to the boss.” Your boss is new and you have a new boss, you both want to achieve early wins. Consequently assure all is well negotiated and agreed upon.

How to help the new boss

• Offer your help: Encourage open and honest communication so they also can reciprocate and be open. Equally give some opportunities for the boss to hear feedback and suggestions.
• Balance cultural differences: Next, encourage and support your boss to identify and balance their own cultural practices with the norms, values, and customs of the new culture. Remember that cultural differences can be a source of richness and diversity, where everyone can learn and grow.
• Collaborate: Also, encourage collaboration between the boss and the rest of the team. This can involve finding common ground, compromising, and adapting to new ways of working. By working together and being open to new perspectives, you can help achieve a positive and inclusive work environment for all. Assure approachability for everyone as a goal.

Make it easy for them

Establishing a positive working relationship is something you can assure through these following steps:

• First, introduce yourself: Take the initiative to introduce yourself to your new boss. Be friendly and professional, and offer to answer any questions they may have about your role or responsibilities.
• Second, build trust: Remember the four key elements of trust: Commitment, Competence – expertise, Caring and Consistency. (This is the formula from a past Leadership course, but there are more if you want to get into the subject of trust. It’s a basic for any relationship). Or in other words, as Abbey Lewis from Harvard Business Publishing would state²: be transparent, authentic, and reliable. Meet deadlines, communicate openly, and be proactive in your approach to your job.
• Lastly, communicate regularly: Maintain regular communication with your boss, and keep them informed of your progress and any issues that arise. This can help build a strong working relationship and ensure that you’re meeting their expectations.

Remember, building a positive working relationship with your boss takes time and effort. Be patient, proactive, and open to feedback, and you’ll be well on your way to a great start.

Further reading

1. M. D. Walkins (2013). The First 90 Days, Expanded Edition. Harvard Business Review Press.
2. Lewis, A., (2022), Good Leadership? It All Starts With Trust., Harvard Business Publishing, https://www.harvardbusiness.org/good-leadership-it-all-starts-with-trust/