How to Clarify Job Responsibilities With Bosses
There are times when you need to discuss and clarify your job responsibilities with your boss. One situation that calls for such a discussion occurs when a new supervisor takes charge and you need to know what her expectations and priorities are. You might find yourself overloaded with work or you may not be sure if a particular task is your responsibility. Another challenge might be a recent downsizing or expansion that creates a need to reorganize and reprioritize tasks.
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Instructions
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Ask to schedule a meeting with your boss for the purpose of clarifying your job responsibilities. Scheduling a meeting shows you respect your boss’s time. In addition, you will accomplish more because interruptions are less likely and your boss will be better able to focus on what you are saying.
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Prepare a written list of specific questions and problems. Keep the list short and focus on key areas that are of concern. An overly long list will involve too much detail. Worse, it may sound like you are simply complaining. Bring the list and a notebook with you to the meeting so you are prepared to present your concerns and take notes.
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Begin the meeting by stating specific reasons for asking for clarification of your job responsibilities. For example, the reason might be that a recent expansion and the addition of new personnel are leading to reassignment of tasks and you want to understand how the changes affect your duties. If you have identified a specific problem, such as confusion as to who is supposed to perform a specific task, be prepared to offer possible solutions. Be courteous and professional at all times.
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Ask your boss to explain his expectations and priorities. This is especially important with a new boss who is likely to have a different vision of what is important. Take notes. Ask questions, and repeat what your boss says in your own words to be certain you understand what he means.
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Offer realistic feedback. For example, your boss might say she wants to see faster turnaround in some area. If you know this goal will require additional resources, say so. Don’t promise something you might not be able to deliver.
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Ask to follow up on the issues you and your boss have discussed. It may not be appropriate to request another scheduled meeting right away. Rather, you should let your boss know you want to follow up if you have any further questions about your job responsibilities.
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