So you’ve got the boss that’ll tell you to do a crazy project and then complain afterwards because they didn’t explain exactly how they wanted it done? Communication is key to getting the job done,but it’s always going to be your fault if it’s lacking from your boss.
So here’s how you fix that problem:
- Ask more Qs- You can never ask too many Qs when you’re trying to understand what people want. The more you ask, the more they figure what they want because they never knew in the first place.
- Figure out which communication channel your boss prefers- Some people prefer phone calls, while others prefer an email. Find out how they work best and move accordingly.
- Request a recurring one-on-one meeting- Whether it’s once a week or every other week, see how you can get on their calendar to touch base. That way, you guys have time to discuss any issues and see how you can make them better.
- Be honest about the problem- Start off with something like,"I often find that I lack instructions when you ask me to prepare reports.” Let them know there’s an issue. Then let them know you want to do a good job and make their lives easier by saying, “I really want those reports to be useful to you, so please explain how I can do better."You’re so winning right now!
Source:The Motley Fool