“Boss doesn’t equal “buddy”
But it doesn’t mean “enemy” either.”
During the first few months on the job it is tempting for new managers to make suggestions or changes too soon, but there are some very good reasons to be cautious. First, new managers have little to no credibility or supervisory experience at this stage in their new role.
Second, the new manager hasn’t been around long enough to know the “ins and outs” of why things are done the way they are. Third, their boss might be the one who created what they want to change.
However, if new managers want to make a good first impression with the boss, there are two critical things that they should do: run ideas and/or decisions by the boss, and have solutions, but be willing to get feedback before implementing.
Following these two steps allows several important interactions to occur:
- Coaching moments from the boss. The insight, input and lessons from the boss will let new managers get a feel for how the boss likes things done.
- Assurance that decisions are on the right track. Bosses usually like to have things done a certain way. They also have knowledge of what has been tried in the past and what has not worked.
- New managers get assurance that they have their boss’ support. The last thing new managers want to hear in the early stages of a relationship with the boss is, “Why didn’t you run that by me before you went ahead?”