By the time we reach college most of us have had a job, which means most of us have had a boss. Now working at a restaurant or being a babysitter is slightly different than working in an office or corporate environment and even if you don’t work in corporate America, working in a professional setting is still very different than that first job we had back in high school. It sometimes is hard to know where the line is when it comes to talking to a boss, especially if your boss is very friendly and open with you. So the question becomes, how do you talk to your boss?
The Friendly Boss:
If your boss seems totally open and wants to tell you everything about themselves, chances are they do that to everyone. However, this does not mean that you suddenly turn around and tell them all about the date that stood you up. Actually it’s quite the opposite, you need to be someone that your boss can confide in. Yes you want to open up as well, but try to steer clear on offering unsolicited advice. This might backfire on you and get you fired (worst case scenario).
The Funny Boss:
If your boss seems to only talk in jokes and wants everything to be a party atmosphere, try to remember that they have worked hard to get to where they are. Most likely they have earned the right to slack off a little bit and that means you need to pick up the slack. It’s your job to be part of the team and keep on track. If it is part of the company culture, try and join in minimally, especially if you are new at the job. Of course after work outings are totally fine to let a few jokes out, just to show you have a sassy side.
The Intense Boss:
If your boss doesn’t say much and is all about the work, then you want to behave accordingly. From personal experience, I can say that this may not be the most fun environment, but let me tell you that you learn so much if you pay attention. Also, with this type of boss you should take any chance you have to show how much you know, chime in with data and ideas about the topic that is being talked about. Also don’t forget the ask questions, try and make them open-ended. This way you will get your boss to talk and begin building a relationship with him or her. This will help in your work down the line as well.
The Mean Boss:
Let’s face it, some bosses are just mean. It may not be something that you are doing, it may just be the type of person your boss is. In this case, try to figure out the triggers that really tick your boss off and do your best to avoid them. Complete you work efficiently and well. Remember that just because they are mean doesn’t necessarily mean that they will be unfair. If they are unfair, this may be a problem you’ll need to talk to HR about. If so, don’t stress. Just follow the motions and talk to someone. It is easier to work through something when you know people have got your back.
So these are just a few of the types of bosses you might encounter in your professional life. Hopefully it helps you identify them and know that yes, they are out there and yes, they can be dealt with.
Photo Sources:
http://thegravitygate.com/2014/06/14/saga-of-a-corporate-newbie/boss-shouting/
http://www.pouted.com/get-boss-actually-appreciate-work/
http://www.simpletranslation.com/blog/things-bosses-hope-know-afraid-ask/
https://terrynwilliams.wordpress.com/tag/uncaring-bosses/
http://blogs.independent.co.uk/2013/03/22/review-of-boss-listen/