Having conversations with your boss can be challenging, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like advocating for yourself, bonuses or even turning in your resignation. Ultimately, your job and career may feel like it’s in your manager’s hands and having a solid relationship goes a long way towards improving your potential at your current job.
Sometimes it might feel like a slippery slope to talk with your boss openly and honestly. For instance, disagreeing with them could create tension and squash your potential for a promotion. Yet, despite the anxiety it might produce, there are some conversations you should not put off.
Requesting Feedback
Let’s start with a conversation that’s a two-edged sword. Not only is having the conversation unnerving but what you’re asking for may also be unnerving. It’s important not to wait until your annual performance review to understand how your boss sees your performance. Frequent feedback will help you to understand the direction you need to take and create a pathway for you to improve more quickly.
Start out meeting with your boss when they aren’t under a lot of stress at work. Then talk with them about how you want to do your best work, and to do the best you can for the company. In order for this to happen, you would like regular assessments and check-ins to be sure that your performance is what the company is looking for.
Most of the time, managers are impressed by your willingness to improve. While they may be willing to give you constructive feedback, it’s important you are prepared to use that feedback and put it into action.
Talk With Your Manager About Using Your Vacation Time
At some companies, there is an underlying cultural expectation that employees do not use their paid time off. In this situation, sometimes other employees tease you and you feel shamed out of taking a vacation. Yet, when the company offers paid time off, it’s important that you take it.
Burnout takes a large toll on companies, individuals and the economy as a whole. When employees suffer from burnout, they often depersonalize themselves from their employer and their job. They may self-medicate with alcohol, food or even recreational drugs. Individuals who suffer from burnout also experience deterioration in their personal relationships and some have lost their marriages.
Showing up to work isn’t the same as being at work. Make sure you get your vacation time so you can come back refreshed and ready to take on new projects.
Talk About Flexibility
There are many ways to be flexible in the job, from the hours you work, to the place you work and the job you do. More often than not, companies are willing to make compromises with their employees to help them get home to get the kids off the bus from school, make medical appointments or take care of a sick pet, which they know makes you more productive.
It’s important to discuss your need for flexibility in the job with your boss. This alone can help reduce your risk for burnout, help you meet your personal needs and improve your outlook on life.
Are You Looking for a New Position?
At Stellar Staffing Solutions, it’s our mission to help our candidates find a job that meets their professional needs. When you are ready to grow your career, call Stellar!
Leave a Reply