How to Talk to Your Boss

I have had both a boss that I didn’t feel I could talk to and a boss that was almost a friend. The difference between the two changed the way that I approached them and spoke to them. But, I still had to do it, so I had to figure out how to speak to both of them comfortably. As someone starting off in your career, this can be a hard and intimidating thing in certain fields. Talking to your boss can have many benefits though. The boss becomes more familiar with you, and you gain a form of trust by building the relationship. You also can build your network in this way, and having the relationship with your boss can help you move up in your company and in future careers if they are willing to help you succeed. 

• Do it!

If you need to talk to your boss, then find a way to talk to them. Either set up a meeting by contacting them through their preferred form of communication or if you see them in person just quickly say, “would I be able to come speak with you sometime?”. A few reasons why you would want to talk to your boss would be: if you have a problem, if you want time off, or if you want a raise. 

• Be clear.

When I get nervous, it feels like my brain detaches from my mouth and I just start to babble. If you need to, plan a script of your request or problem in advance so you have an idea of exactly what you want to say. Take a deep breath. You also want to be clear in the way that you speak. Make sure that you talk at an appropriate volume so that you can be heard but you also do not want to seem like you are yelling. 

• Honesty is always the best policy.

Just tell your boss the truth. Did you screw up? Go tell your boss. They will appreciate you telling them. If you have to miss work, just talk to your boss. You never know when a lie could be uncovered. Lying is never a good thing anyways, and it’s an easy way to lose a job. You will lose trust that your boss has for you. 

• When you do speak with them, listen.

You went to them for a reason, so make sure you are paying attention to everything they are saying. This can help you learn how to communicate with your boss for the next conversation that you will have with them. 

            Speaking with your boss is not always easy, but it is often necessary. It will most likely happen at one point or another, so taking the first step and going to them puts the ball in your court. You can have a good first communication instead of being nervous about what they are going to say to you. I hope that talking to your boss goes how you have planned, but if it doesn’t, just think about what happened and see what you can do for next time! Good luck!