How to Get Used to a New Boss

Don't worry about what is behind that door.

You may have the world's best working relationship with your current boss, but the balance of power can change in an instant. If your boss leaves the company, there are ways you can insure an equally agreeable relationship with your new boss. Yes, every boss is different. The procedures and programs you had down to a science can be completely obliterated and replaced with new ones in an instant. Don't get discouraged. It might be a challenge, but you can get used to a new boss and a new way of doing things

Instructions

1. 

   Be flexible. Even if you have been with your company for 10 years and know its inner workings intimately, your new boss may want to try to reinvent the wheel. Don't fight him. If your new boss has an idea that has been proven ineffective in the past, feel free to share your insights. Resist the urge to pronounce his idea completely unworkable. Be willing to try things in new ways. This will show your new boss you are willing to work with him. That can begin to build a foundation of trust between the two of you.

2. 

   Be open minded. Give your new boss a chance. Although he may seem incompetent at first, nerves may be holding him back from showing his full potential. As he gets more comfortable, he may be effective at doing things you never considered with the other boss.

3. 

   Set boundaries. If your new boss has expectations of you that are outside of your job description, you have to set clear limits. You don't want to be difficult, but you do want your new boss to know you have limits. He may not clearly understand your job unless it is explained to him from the very beginning.

4. 

   Be enthusiastic. Although it's difficult to see a beloved boss leave, look at a new boss as a new adventure and opportunity. Tell your new boss you are happy to meet him. Nothing is as contagious as genuine enthusiasm. Offer to show him the best lunch spots in the neighborhood. Go the extra step to make him feel comfortable.

5. 

   Ask questions. Each person has a different set of priorities. Perhaps your last boss was very invested in small details and neatly ordered task lists. Your new boss may be a more creative person and want information given in a completely different format,. Specifically ask your new boss what he expects of you. Pet peeves and preferences should be addressed.

6. 

   If it's not working, give yourself permission to move on. Life is short, and far too short to spend 8 hours a day being miserable. If you have exhausted every attempt to make things work with your new boss and the two of you still are not clicking, it might be time to look for a new job.

Tips & Warnings

• Before your old boss leaves, ask him to write a letter of recommendation for you.

• Don't compare your new boss to your old boss. Judge the new boss on his own merits.