The single most important thing you can say to your boss

Published: Sun, 09/14/14

Open with this statement when 
you want to be heard

"I'm bringing this up because I want to do a good job."

This is one of the most powerful sentences you can use to start a conversation with your boss.

There was a study done several years ago about employee feedback.  Employees said they didn't receive feedback about their performance.  Managers said they delivered feedback regularly.  The disconnect was here.  The managers thought the employees knew when they were getting feedback.  They didn't.  When managers started the feedback with some version of "I'm giving you feedback now," employees reported receiving more feedback.

We're not talking about dumb or difficult people here.  This can happen to any one of us.  

You can switch this up and use this same tactic with your boss.

Say the most important thing first.

It's like starting with "I'm giving you feedback now."  When you say, "I'm bringing this up because I want to do a good job," this gives your boss a heads-up about what's coming.  

What supervisor doesn't want to hear that his or her employee wants to do a good job?  We assume our supervisors know this is the backdrop.  It's easy for the boss to lose sight of when they are overwhelmed or focused on other priorities.

Depending on the circumstances, start with this before launching into an idea or problem.  It's particularly useful when what you have to say might sound like you are questioning a decision or instructions.

There's no need to say this every time.  Yet, even with the best of bosses, this is helpful when the stakes are high, or if your boss gets defensive.  Remind them of the good reason you are there.   

Image: Microsoft Clipart 
My Best,
P.S. Do you want to learn more about how to make the most of your relationship with your boss?  I have a presentation designed just for this purpose.  Click here to download a one-page flyer describing what is included in this presentation that can be delivered via webinar or in person. Sometimes putting this on a decision maker's desk can have more impact than another email in their inbox. 

HR managers, network leaders, professional society committee members, click here to contact me about bringing this to your group.

About Mary Schaefer: I'm a coach and trainer for managers of people and anyone else committed to their own development and advancement.  My belief is that your key to success is self-empowerment.  Click here to find out more about what I mean by this and what it can mean for you.

Question? Comment? Click reply and let's talk.

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