There are times when you may think you don’t have enough energy left to handle the boss. The pressure at work can sometimes raise stress levels to an all-time high that makes you think of throwing in the towel. Wouldn’t it be nice if you can just tell the boss exactly what you are dying to tell him/her? Getting cold feet in front of the boss is normal, but take heart; you can do it with a little practice and some courage. Learn how to tell your boss that…

• S/he has done something wrong. If your boss has done something wrong, make sure that you are right. Double-check with a colleague before approaching him/her. Politely tell your boss that you have found an error on what s/he said, did or wrote. Your boss can either take the offensive so better prepare something to soften the blow and make the problem appear minor…perhaps offer to fix it yourself? Or your boss may take this positively and appreciate being corrected (what a relief!).

• You need a raise. Recognition of your value in the office should not only be compensated with the occasional pats and freebies but also monetarily. Every worker wants a raise from time to time, but the idea of asking the boss for it makes you take a step backward. Before asking for a raise, find more information about the pay of workers with similar job description as yours in the same industry. Ask your boss if s/he has time to talk regarding your salary. Once you get the chance, tell the boss about your research and ask him/her how s/he finds your work. This way, you can both look at the issue fairly and squarely and come up with a win-win outcome.

• You made a huge mistake. Admitting a blunder is difficult especially if it involves closing a big deal or a huge project proposal. Instead of torturing yourself or grieving in your cube, go to your boss and confess what happened. Prepare to propose possible solutions. This will give your boss the feeling that everything is under control. Take responsibility and do everything to save your name – and the game.

• You’re quitting. Quitting your job is one of the most crucial decisions in your career. Regardless of the reasons, avoid falling into the trap of telling your colleagues first or it might turn ugly when the boss gets wind of the information before hearing it from you. Write your resignation letter and choose the perfect time when s/he’s not busy or harassed (timing is everything!) and hand it in. Don’t just disappear after giving the letter; give him/her the chance to finish reading and answer questions s/he may have about your reasons for quitting.

Talking to the boss is not really that difficult if you have a clear purpose and come prepared. It may not always be apparent but most bosses appreciate it when their employees take the initiative to talk to them. They can do with some straight talking and simple honesty. Just make sure you maintain the level of respect when you tell your boss what’s on your mind.

Tags: job, job tips, jobs, Personal Branding, professional

This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 11th, 2010 at 9:47 am and is filed under Free Advice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.