How to Bring Something to Your Supervisor's Attention

There are smarter and less stressful ways to get your supervisor's attention.

Getting your supervisor's attention regarding a problem requires careful planning and smart presentation just as with any project. From the way you approach your boss to how you present your issue, all play a key role in the kind of reaction you elicit from your boss. Adopting workable strategies reduces unnecessary stress and gets your job done effectively.

Instructions

1. Control yourself from emotionally reacting to the issue. Remember that by confronting the boss in an emotional state, you're being unprofessional at your best; such behavior is more likely to ruin your reputation in the office than helping you solve the issue. Calm down, talk to a colleague about your feelings and then think about getting your boss's attention regarding the issue.

2. Assess if the issue is worth the attention of your boss first; bosses will more likely be keener on issues that impact key organizational factors such as customers and revenue. Consider taking your issue to your boss only if you find your issue impacting these key bottom lines.

3. Keep a list of possible solutions handy if you've decided to take the problem to your supervisor. Realize that your boss may resent it if you simply dump your problems on him and expect him to solve it; he is more than likely to be under stress from the higher management and he doesn't need problems from his team as well. Show some action on your side too, to communicate that the issue is indeed serious and that you're not just standing and whining about it.

4. Write down your plan, what you're going to say to your boss and how you're going to present the issue. State clearly how the issue is affecting your individual or team performance and hence customer relations, to gain the quickest attention from your supervisor.

5. Request for an appointment with your supervisor and talk to her one to one regarding the issue. State the issue plainly as you know it, setting aside your own assumptions or prejudiced opinions about other people. Put forth your solutions as well.

6. Listen to your boss's perspective of the situation as well. Let him express his own suggestions for the problem. Avoid being stubborn about getting your own way; be empathetic with your boss's limitations. Work out possible consensus or give the problem some more time to come up with alternative options. Thank him for his time, and follow up for further action.

References

• Your Office Coach; How to Complain to Your Boss; Marie G. McIntyre, Ph.D.
• "Forbes"; The Boss and You; Scott Reeves; March 2006