WORK ability
Be on best term with the BOSS
Roopa Hegde

A manager friend of mine, who recently changed her company, had an interesting story to share. On her very first day in the new job, she faced an unexpected response. One of the employees seemed very angry with her and was even reluctant to get introduced to her. So much so that she had to endure her negative comments at every meeting as the employee continued to be a source of disruption. The reason: this employee had applied for the same managerial post for which my friend had been selected. So, she couldn't help harbouring animosity against my friend.

A majority of people have a negative perception about the term 'boss', which generally stands for someone who is bossy. But that need not be true at all — bosses can be very friendly and endearing.

Whether you change your company or stay in the same firm, chances are that you'll get to work with a new boss at some stage or the other. Here are some practical tips for starting off on the right note.

A new boss can be a fresh start for you. Remember, your first meeting isn't really an interview with him. You want to impress your new boss, not compete with or alienate him. Offer to assist him in his transition period and try to get to know your boss's expectations.

The better you know your boss and what is important to him, the easier it is to get along.

Besides displaying an intellect inherent in reports, you'd want to keep in mind other aspects that could show your work in a good light. If you're the kind of person who takes into consideration only the work, format or other aspects and if that's not what your boss is looking for, then apparently you will not impress him.

Most certainly, the best way to impress your boss is to deliver quality work on time. In addition, taking initiative through self-motivation is another great way to succeed. Why not suggest solutions to problems rather than always seeking an answer? Weigh your recommendations and present them professionally.

Be cheerful and enthusiastic about whatever you're asked to do. Your cheerfulness could be an inspiration to rest of the people! Maintain a positive attitude and have high expectations for yourself and your work. That way, you're sure to catch your boss's attention.

Putting in ideas and presenting them in an appropriate manner would definitely prove beneficial.

In your mission to impress, ensure that you show up at meetings on time and contribute fresh and useful ideas often. Keep in mind your company's goals and policies and propose directions that your company might want to consider heading towards and ways to increase efficiency. Contribute as much as possible to find a better way to get things done.

When appropriate, don't hesitate to expand your role and take on an extra responsibility. If you're done with your projects, be generous in helping others with theirs. Volunteering to take on more difficult tasks would sure show your boss that you're capable of performing duties other than those you were assigned. In case your boss suggests an additional responsibility, don't refuse the opportunity to show your willingness to go the extra mile.

Have a fire for learning and look for ways to contribute. In case you're required to learn new skills in performing your job optimally, take this as an opportunity to plunge into it. Apart from making you more qualified for your position, new skills — no matter how mundane — will make you more valuable to the company and, depending on the skill, may also impress your boss.

If a new skill is necessary and no one in your department or company has this skill, ask your boss whether he or she would like you to take a class or online seminar in order to bring this skill into the company.

"Dress like the position you wish to attain" is a good old rule of the thumb. The way you behave, talk, and make a decision or even dress — all have their own say in forming the impression, by which your boss will remember you. Earn a reputation for being dependable, professional and, of course, cooperative. Ensure you dress in a style suiting your profession and post but at the same time dare to be different and stand out from the pack.

Do ask questions whenever you aren't sure of doing something and don't ever whine or blame others when things don't go your way. Most importantly, don't be a clock-watcher. Impressing a new boss doesn't have to be a pretence. Make a genuine effort and it's sure to pay.