You were wondering whether you should give your boss a gift this year or if perhaps he would be giving you one for once. But a pretty peculiar present awaited you this morning when you learned that he was resigning… Still in shock, you’re not sure whether to shed tears of joy or despair.
Anxiety and uncertainty are not uncommon emotions when a new boss comes on the scene. Beyond the pleasure or sadness the announcement of his departure may bring, it means that nothing will be the same. Your work habits, operating procedures and relationships will be challenged. Each new boss brings his own management style, and it’s up to you to adapt. Will he appreciate your work as much? Will he be as understanding about your shortcomings and family obligations? Will he shut himself in his office and make unilateral decisions without consulting you. Or will he have new favourites? So many questions are racing through your mind. And what about that promotion you’ve worked so hard for! With a new boss, you may have to start again from scratch.
But then, this is a golden opportunity to get your superior to know you! One rung less and the big corner office is yours. And it’s not too shabby either. Admit it! Your letter to Santa included the wish to take his place. In fact, didn’t he once say that you were his successor? In any case, be prepared to have a new boss or a different style of management next year. If you can’t tolerate being passed over to replace him, you can put aside your ego and seize the chance to showcase your qualities. Or you can simply leave!
Here are five basic principles that will help you greet the new year and your new boss with style and optimism!
– Principle No. 1: If you’re dreading the arrival of a new boss, remind yourself that he is also feeling uncomfortable. For most people, taking on the responsibility to manage a new group is always a bit stressful. Even if the new boss doesn’t show it, he is most likely apprehensive about his new duties. Give him a chance, you may find it rewarding! If you had an excellent relationship with your former boss and are sad about his departure, why take it out on the new one? Stop thinking about how you worked before or the way the business was managed and embrace the change with optimism! You can “mourn” if you want, but who’s to say that this change won’t be for the better?
– Principle No. 2: You will learn to move to a new beat. To each his own style. Seize the opportunity to learn new processes and explore new techniques. Don’t be resistant to change; it may cost you in the end. Instead, play the cooperation card. Who knows? You may find out a great deal more about your abilities. Give this new manager time to get settled into his new role, but don’t delay in letting him know who you are and watch how he operates so that you can establish a long-lasting partnership. Remember, he will also be looking for allies within the new team. He needs you as much as you need him.
– Principle No. 3Cooperate! Don’t forget that your ability to adapt is also being evaluated. Your boss — and your boss’s boss — will know if you are open to a new style of management. Make him your ally so that you can continue to grow and move ahead. Any other attitude is simply a waste of time. You may as well quit now if that’s the case! Some employees prefer to follow their former boss to the new organization, while others will try their luck elsewhere. If you decide to stay, then stack the odds in your favour! Be proactive and participatory while casting a critical eye. No one is asking you to curry favour and be at the head of the class. Your new boss will certainly appreciate your input as well as your self-reliance and sense of responsibility. Believe me, knowing that you can handle your own files and that he can avoid mistakes by relying on your judgment will be one less thing for him to worry about.
– Principle No. 4Test his values. This step will require political finesse, tact and skill. As deftly as possible, you will have to determine the true character of this unfamiliar individual (even if it’s a former colleague). Whether the new arrival is an insider or an outsider, it is essential for you to know what to expect. Remember, you can always use your network of contacts to carry out your own little investigation. However, make up your own mind. Should you have lunch with him? Why not! If he hasn’t offered yet, what’s stopping you from suggesting it yourself? Or invite him to participate in an office activity; he also wants to integrate into the group. Each person is unique and has his own value system: what worked with the old boss may not necessarily pass muster with the new one. This is why it’s important to determine where you stand as quickly as possible to avoid any misunderstandings.
– Principle No. 5: You might find yourself in his shoes one day. Learn from his achievements and mistakes so that you can excel in the future and become an excellent boss yourself.
Now isn’t this a good way to tackle your goals for the coming year? On this note, I wish you continued success in the year 2007!