How to Cope With a First-Time Boss

First-time bosses can be a pain in the neck. Every decision and communication is an experiment as they learn their new skills. Understanding and empathy can go a long way to making the situation easier on yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start out the new relationship by cutting the boss some slack. She doesn't know the ropes, will make mistakes and likely is wondering just how she got herself into this crazy situation. Avoiding getting wound up over the initial bumps in the road will reduce your stress.
2. As the work relationship progresses, focus on communicating clearly and often. Most new bosses feel the need to know everything that's going on, all the time. This can result in micromanaging, at least until they come to trust their staff. If you take the lead in communicating, your boss will spend less time breathing down your neck.
3. After the boss calms down some, try to teach him how you want to be managed. For example, if you are more comfortable getting the boss' sign-off on certain decisions, suggest regular meetings to discuss your progress on projects. If you do your best work under minimal supervision, continue to overcommunicate as outlined in step 2.
4. Try to maintain a high level of patience. Managing people is a skill that takes time and training to develop. At the same time, there's no reason to suffer what you think is abuse or unfair treatment. A calm, private talk with the boss might ease tensions and, if the supervisor is fair-minded, earn you some points when it comes to your evaluation.

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