You must learn how to communicate with your bosses about your wants and demands if you want to have a healthy and harmonious working relationship.
To do so, you need to be aware of what your bosses are interested in listening to and talking about.
Things you wish your Boss would talk about
Here are few things that your boss wishes you would talk about:
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When you need to be challenged
Your bosses are not mind-readers; it is your responsibility to let them know when you think you're capable of doing more than they are expecting of you. They might have a certain set of expectations and challenges set for every role in their mind. If you feel bored or under-challenged, talk to them about it. Ask them to consider you for different and more challenging projects or roles. However, if they do, make an effort to show them that you are worth it. This will improve your boss's opinion of you, which may lead to a potential promotion. In the end, it shows that you care for your personal development as well as about the company.
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Any serious problems you're having with coworkers
You must inform your boss as soon as possible if you are having serious problems with another employee. Because it does not take long for little issues to escalate into major issues, further resulting in litigation and dismissals. Nobody wants to be seen as the bad guy that comes out and criticizes other employees, yet it is sometimes absolutely necessary to do so.
So, as soon as you identify an issue, whether it's unwanted attention, inappropriate statements, discrimination, or bullying, inform your boss. Further, try to document the problems as soon as they occur since this provides your employer with strong proof that may aid in human resources and dealing with an employee who is making your life unpleasant.
When it comes to expressing ideas or asking questions, employees are typically afraid of being judged. On the other hand, managers always welcome a thought-provoking proposal or a query that enhances the company's operation. Although many organizations have an open door policy, employees are taught not to raise questions or speak up.
For example, nowadays, businesses are increasingly adopting automation as a part of their culture, and your managers would love to hear which tedious activities you would want to see automated.
Technology makes your job easier and promotes company growth. When employees see possibilities to streamline operations, it is a win-win situation for everyone.
Well, it is tough to tell someone what you don’t like about the workplace they’ve created, but it is mandatory to communicate to avoid built-up resentment. In the end, their objective is also to build a work environment that facilitates their company’s success. Hence, go ahead and layout all of the issues you face in achieving your goals and commitments and ask them for advice on how to proceed. Don’t go with a tone that blames them; instead, adopt a problem-solving approach that demonstrates your willingness to learn. This will portray you as a proactive employee who wants to overcome all obstacles and, as a result, make the workplace a better place to work for everyone.
Managers say they are often startled when employees don’t inquire about what’s next to the progression of their careers. Unfortunately, many people become complacent in their current position and forget how vital it is to keep moving forward. This is critical for their personal, professional development as well as the company's growth. If employees remain stagnant, so will the company.
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Frustrations with the employer
If you are working with a boss that gets on your nerves every time you have to deal with them, it will affect your productivity and your job satisfaction will suffer. To avoid such circumstances, you should confront the situation with your boss and discuss possible solutions. Your boss might not take the initiative to resolve such issues, but they’ll be glad to address them when brought up by you.
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What you love about your workplace
We often tend to associate ‘communicating with your boss’ with a negative connotation. Employees often exclusively discuss the negative aspects of their employment with their bosses. On the other hand, many managers have stated that they would love to hear what works best for their employees in the workplace so that they can ensure that it is implemented in the long run.