Minimize stepping on toes or undue tension by being open to changes and constructive criticism. Ask your new boss if they approve of the way you’re doing things or if you need to modify any processes. Don’t worry about looking like a suck-up right now! Once you get a good idea of your boss’s expectations, you can work without much micromanagement.
Empathy is the ability to understand another’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It is a significant skill for effective workplace leadership. [4] X Research source Show your support and enthusiasm for your boss’s new role. For instance, you could say, “Linda, I’m really looking forward to having you as my boss. " Refrain from teasing your new boss about their changing role.
Congratulate your friend by saying something like, “I’m so proud of you and your promotion. " Say, “I know the new dynamic is going to change how we interact with each other at work,” if you want to acknowledge the change. Tell them you value the friendship. Try saying, “We’ve been friends for years, and I don’t want our friendship to suffer. " Invite them to set boundaries by saying, “Let’s talk about some guidelines for how we can interact with one another moving forward. " You might be able to continue your friendship if your workplace allows fraternization. Limit your discussions of work-related topics outside the office. Minimize friendliness on the job to stay professional.
Get started on an assigned task without him having to prompt you again and again. Don’t whine when asked to do something. Refrain from gossiping about your boss with other employees. Aim to present solutions rather than complaining about problems. Make your boss look good by presenting yourself in a professional manner.
State the problem first: “I notice we’ve been getting reports in later and later each week. " Introduce a potential solution: “It might be helpful if we created a paperwork hour at the end of every day. " Explain why your solution will work: “That way, everyone can take time to work on reports each day, rather than using all of Friday to catch up. "
Explain to other colleagues that this new boss has a new role and, ultimately, new responsibilities. Model showing your new boss respect, while still keeping a good professional distance while on the clock.
