October Potential Challenge: User Manual for Your Boss

One of the greatest assets a successful office professional can have is a strategic partnership with his or her boss. Creating that synergy takes time and effort, but is well worth the investment. All of us here at OfficeArrow could most likely share some memorable "Devil Wears Prada" experiences of working for less than perfect, dysfunctional bosses! We could also share just as many stories about those golden, too good to be true relationships.

So, what's the magic formula? Sorry to disappoint, but there isn't one. Because of the human element we all possess (although some might say their boss is alien in nature) pooled with different management styles, personalities and values, the boss/assistant relationship is anything but uncomplicated and simple.

In case you aren't aware, the 16th of this month marks "Bosses Appreciation Day." So, this month's challenge offers you the opportunity to see how well you know what makes your boss tick. Knowing how your boss ticks will help both of you avoid major meltdowns.

The Challenge:

1. Ben Dattner from Dattner Consulting suggests using the following template to determine how your boss works. Your challenge is to complete the template using specific language and examples related to your individual situation. I have provided an example for you.

2. Complete the template one area at a time. Don't rush through it. Use whatever time you need to filter down and get specific. Remember you are answering these questions from your boss's perspective, not your own, so that makes the challenge, well, more challenging!

3. One of the benefits of this challenge is that you will discover just how well you know your boss. It will also provide valuable insights into how your value system matches up to that of your boss. That's important because often we convince ourselves that working in a toxic situation is not that bad. Sherron Watkins, the Enron whistleblower said, "I'd advise folks to run from toxic bosses as fast as you can. If your value system is being challenged on a routine basis, leave as soon as possible. Switch divisions, switch companies, move now!" Conversely, if you can complete the exercise and feel confident that your boss's work style does not compromise your values, you are on course for success in developing a wonderful, strategic partnership. And once you've experienced that level of respect, loyalty and partnership as an assistant, there's no going back to Devil Wears Prada-land!

Lisa Olsen provides OfficeArrow members with down-to-earth career advice from her extensive experience as a Career Consultant. An author, trainer, speaker and consultant, Lisa's dedication to building relationship chemistry and helping people power up their potential has been the catalyst for her own success. Learn more about Lisa and her services, including keynote addresses, resume revision, and on-site professional development training here.