Boss not listening or responding?
I’ve coached several people who struggle to communicate important issues to their boss. Many of them have a boss who is so busy they only get a curt acknowledgement or nothing at all as he or she manages an enormous workload. This is not helpful to leaders as they need approval and guidance to accomplish tasks for the good of the company. I’ve had many leaders just throw their hands up in frustration and accept defeat.
The virtual and digital nature of the modern workplace has only complicated the problem. 75% of office communication is now digital according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. While this gives more options to send and receive messages, what is lost is the interpersonal communication and interaction which subordinates need from their leaders. A Slack channel message can be sent with ease but lost is how and if it is received.
Of course, in coaching the real goal is to get the leader to step back, shine a light on the problem, then develop ways to overcome. Since I’m blogging, here are a few of many tips to deal with an unresponsive boss. You may want to combine a few of these approaches.
Change the environment. Ask to meet the boss in person or one-on-one virtually. It will be harder for them to avoid responding when you have their direct attention.
Use their words. If the boss is a “show me the numbers” guy or gal, then give them what they want. Example, “Boss I have the new recruiting plan ready to brief which includes a cost-benefit analysis and numbers input from the CFO. Recommend we enter a separate virtual room at the end of Thursday's sales meeting. I need 15 minutes.”
Be sensitive to timing. The best subordinate leaders have a good sense of what their boss is tackling and or what he or she is prioritizing. They also understand which time of day is best to communicate to the boss and how best he or she receives information.
Of course, always keep your messages brief and to the point. Asking open ended questions can backfire (more on that in a future blog). Lastly, don’t stop communicating. You owe your boss information. Figure out what that is and continue to communicate.
Ok, we need to talk. In writing this I just came up with 5 more methods to overcome an unresponsive boss. Every leader needs a coach. I can be that person for you or a leader you know. Make the connection today and I’ll take them on a journey of transformation!
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell