It’s never fun working for a bad boss. But, the odds are pretty high that you’ll work for one (or even several bad bosses) over the course of your career. Believe it or not, the majority won’t be mean bullies; they’ll most likely be managers who are “nice,” but disconnected from the everyday work.
The key to being able to deal with a “disengaged, but amiable” boss is to make sure you’re in mutual agreement with your responsibilities, and then take proactive steps to further your career. Here’s how:
Express your concerns to your boss. While some employees actually enjoy working for disengaged managers because it gives them more freedom in their jobs, not everyone is like that. If you don’t feel comfortable with your manager’s level of engagement in your work, have a private conversation with your boss and share your concerns – but do so in a calm and compassionate manner. Brainstorm ways you can work together that will satisfy your need for management direction.
Agree on your goals, objectives, and projects – then provide regular updates. Because your manager is disengaged, make sure you’re headed in the right direction with what you need to accomplish in your job. Mutually agree upon your goals and objectives for the year as well as all projects for which you’ll be responsible. Then, track and provide progress updates to your boss, asking for help or advice as needed.
Ensure you receive performance evaluations. Create a “Project List” document to track your projects, assignments, and duties as well as your progress toward their completion. Use this during your update meetings with your manager to ensure your boss knows about the contributions you’re making. Include this information in your self-evaluation and ask your manager to include it in your annual performance evaluation. Make sure a copy of your performance evaluation goes into your personnel file in Human Resources (HR).
Volunteer for cross-functional projects. This will help you get to know other employees and managers outside your department. It will also allow you to demonstrate skills that could help you obtain a lateral move or promotion into another area of the company (and out from under the disengaged boss).
Network. Meet others in the company and use your network to find other job opportunities under managers with a more supportive people management style.
Obtain mentors/sponsors. Mentors generally provide career advice, whereas sponsors help you gain visibility, connect you with job opportunities, and provide air cover during difficult situations. Use both wisely, to help you move out from under a bad boss.
Build your personal brand. If it turns out your disengaged boss may soon be leaving his/her position and you’re interested in that job – create a plan to build your brand within the company, so that the management team and HR will see you as a viable successor.
~ Lisa Quast, author of the recently released book, Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want. Every Time. Join me on Twitter @careerwomaninc
