How to Work Successfully with Multiple Bosses

Some people have more than one boss.

One of the most popular organization structures companies use today is matrixed management. This requires that workers have multiple bosses. Although a company may save money from this management approach, worker dissatisfaction and burnout resulting from multiple and sometimes competing directives can decrease productivity and override any tangible gains. If you are in a matrixed work environment with multiple bosses, there are tips you can use to be successful.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Multiple Bosses
• Perseverance
• Patience
• Emotional Control
• Assertiveness
• Positive Mindset

1. Identify and discover how to deal with the personality and leadership style of each boss.

2. Request that each boss give you deadlines and priority levels for all assignments. If timing and priority are unimportant, suggest deadlines based on what you know about company operations and business unit goals.

3. Develop a master worksheet that includes every task you have been given by each boss. Include deadlines and priorities for each assignment. Give a copy to your bosses and ask them to help you determine priorities and manage the work flow.

4. Communicate with each boss immediately when scheduling conflicts arise. Let your bosses work out among themselves the most important task to complete.

5. Learn how to say "no" to projects you know you will not be able to complete. Offer different options for getting the work done instead of becoming overwhelmed.

6. Increase your bosses' awareness of the challenges you face by diplomatically reminding them of others in the work unit who may be able to do various assignments.

7. Hold a group meeting with your bosses regularly to become familiar with their desired outcomes and the expectations they have of you. Ask them to share the big picture of what is happening in the company so you can better understand your role.

8. Always keep your bosses informed about what you are doing and ask for feedback.

References

• The center for organization design: Making Matrix Management Work