https://unsplash.com/@rawpixel
If you have some constructive criticism to give to your boss, consider these tips about finding both the right time and the right words to frame your message.
For timing, it’s important to take advantage of the structured opportunities created in your work environment to provide feedback.
- Supervision meetings are typically routine times for you to meet with your boss. While the standard discussion may be about your performance, you may be able to address some of your concerns here.
- Annual reviews usually have a section in them where the supervisor is supposed to ask for feedback. I know this doesn’t happen everywhere as it requires insight from both the company and humility from the manager.
- Anytime she asks, “How is it going?” or “Is there anything I can do for you?” Hopefully, she’s really asking you to be honest with her.
Regarding how you frame your message, I’m a believer of collecting more flies with honey than with vinegar. Here are some tips about how to frame your message.
- Be polite and professional at all times. If you lose your cool, then she can make a thing of your behavior which distracts everyone from your legitimate concerns about her.
- Ask if it’s alright for you to share something that you need. Requesting permission reminds her of her authority—in case she thought you forgot about it. But it also sets the tone for what’s to come.
- Frame your message as something you need in order to produce your best. You can speak about being aware of what you need to flourish at work and produce the results she is seeking. To do this, you need x, y and z from her.
While all bosses are different, and some may dodge your attempts at looking at their vulnerabilities, these tips provide some guidelines for trying to address your concerns professionally and without mediation. Should you not get through to her, you may need to escalate the issue to the powers that be.
What do you think? Share you ideas with us in the comments below.