What Do You Wish Your Manager Knew?
In today’s work climate, being a manager is a tough job. In addition to meeting company goals and the responsibilities that go with it, most are now working managers with their own workload as well. Gone are the days where managers simply delegate everything out to their staff. Many of us no longer have clerical support or assistants, we just have to find a way to get it done.
You may be on your own
So realistically, how can you get the best from your manager when they are struggling as much as you are to get everything done? First, you can recognize that in many ways, you are on your own! You are your own best advocate anyway. Why wait for your manager to always set your goals or the expectations they have of you?
You are probably thinking the company you work for wouldn’t allow you to have input into what their expectations are. You may be surprised. Many managers would welcome an employee who takes an active part in their job development. I wouldn’t suggest telling them how to configure your job on your first day you are hired! However, after you have been on the job for a while, your perspective may be welcomed. You can bring knowledge and experience to your manager based on your day-to-day involvement with the job. This is not a laundry list of complaints or problems. Managers already know what the problems are. Use your skills to bring well thought out ideas for solutions, a way to implement them and the positive effects that can result.
Am I taking a risk?
Right about now you are thinking, but what if the manager doesn’t want to hear my ideas because they are threatened? Or, what if the manager takes credit for my ideas? Or what if they get mad and say I am overstepping? Yes, those are all risks. Only you can decide if your work environment is open to your input. But maybe their negative response would tell you that you are working in the wrong place and that info is valuable before you waste too much time there. Even if your skills are not valued or recognized, you gained valuable experience preparing and presenting your ideas. Those are skills that will be valued in other companies as you move forward in your career.
What do you wish your manager knew about you? Once you make that list, it will be more clear in your mind what value you bring to the company. Use that list to remind yourself how to grow in your position. It can also be useful in preparing for your review to show your manager what an asset you are. It is becoming less common for managers to have the time to nurture their direct reports. Employees that can self-motivate and seek a mentor or coach on their own are much more likely to get more opportunities for advancement.
Great hires can turn into problem solvers
Using a professional CRA (Consumer Reporting Agency) for your pre-employment or vendor screening services will save you time and money. For a free consultation or more information, contact Genesis Background Screening Services at 866 944-0041 ext 101. Online, you can email or visit www.genesisbackgroundscreening.com. You can sign up to be emailed whenever we post a new blog at https://genesisbackgroundscreening.com/blog/
Genesis Background Screening is not a law firm and provides our blogs for informational purposes only. Blog is not a substitute for experienced legal advice. Research laws or regulations mentioned in our blogs and ask your legal counsel any questions you have to be sure your organization is within the law and compliant with regulations.
Jacqueline McClure
Genesis Background Screening Services
