Message #72760

[peaches2160]

I agree with the previous posts from Gee and msmariah.  When I assumed my role, 4 years ago, I was set up to fail from the beginning.  My predecessor, although she had voluntarily retired, led my boss to believe she had trained me.  She left out ALOT of details.  There were also several people who were upset that I had been chosen for the role, either they wanted the job, or were direct reports and did not want me in the role supporting their boss because they knew what I am capable of. 
I charged forward, tackling obstacles every day.  I was given bad information and sabotaged, even to the extent that I was given bad information in preparing him for an executive meeting, which in turn made him look bad.  After that, he and I had a talk.  I remained calm and professional.  However, with all due respect, I let him know what information I was going from and that I did not know what I did not know.  I implemented an action list for he and I and scheduled one on one meetings weekly for review of the actions and what current issues were on his radar and mine.  It has kept us singing from the same page ever since.  I took the initiative and read subject matter books on my own.  I researched how to build a partnership with your boss.  In doing so, I found a few great reference books, one of which is reviewed on the book club list here.  Top of the list from eturtle.  When problems arise, I handle them and in some cases, will let my boss know in a message “FYI” or “Just wanted you to be aware”.  In that manner he is not blindsided if something additional should arise.  I do seek his guidance from time to time, and tell him, my thoughts or what I am recommending…….and ask him for his thoughts.  In that approach, you are collaborating, not just leaving it in your boss’s hands. 
From the beginning I prepared detailed travel agendas when he travels.  He told me I did not have to do that.  He had never had that previously.  However, I told him, you don’t understand, this is what I do.  I continued to do it whether he referred to it or not.  Now, he has told me, he can’t travel without it.  I prepare the detailed agenda with travel notes, contact information, cell ph#’s, etc.  I keep a copy as well.  In that way, I know at any given time where he is, when it is a good time to call him if I need to, and if travel arrangements need to be changed, I can immediately note what needs to be cancelled and what is rebooked.  Recently, my logistics style came in very handy when a snow storm stranded him and travel had to be changed /cancelled quickly.  His direct reports tease me when he is traveling to their city because I am so detail oriented and confirm everything. They tell me you would think the PResident was coming to their city.  I tell them as far as I am concerned, he is.   However, in a nice way, this is how I work and they know what to expect.  Ultimately, my boss appreciates it.
You need to be quietly assertive and proactive.  Take the initiative to learn about the profession and improve your knowledge and skill set.   Take charge of the calendar and schedule the meetings.  Manage your boss’s time.  Become engaged in the business.  Ask permission to attend staff meetings, and monthly meetings where appropriate, if you don’t already.  Learn about the business your boss manages.  Over the past 4 years I have become my boss’s right arm.  I have taken the initiative to learn the business which in turn helps my boss.  In this economy, no one is secure.  It is our responsibility to take charge of our career by making ourselves as valuable to our employer as possible.  Learn the business, gain respect and always treat others with respect as well.  Take initiative to make improvements where necessary and keep a list.  Do not flaunt your accomplishments, be humble.  The impression you make and the impact you have on people you come in contact with will follow you wherever you go and ultimately benefit you.