What Your Boss Wants You To Know

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know what your boss is thinking? That in between deadlines, meetings, and the occasional reprimands, you’d know exactly the way the mind of your boss is wired? Truth is, each boss is different the same way each person is, but effective bosses, in general, are leaders, and therefore share the same characteristics.

One of my life’s greatest mentors is Ms. Yay P. Olmedo, my former Advertising professor. From the moment I entered her classroom in 2005, she has been a pillar of strength – one who has taught me so much about life and work. Ms. Yay’s glittered career – which began when she graduated as Cum Laude from the University of the Philippines continued on at the prestigious San Miguel Food Group where she worked as a Vice President. Today, she is an author, a motivational speaker, and a writer on the way to complete her second book Now That You’re Boss, after inspiring many with her first one, Going Up.

In one of our cyberspace conversations of catching up, I couldn’t help but ask her one question, ‘What does my boss expect of me?’ It then inspired this article, most of which I hope many people my age would benefit from. I feel extremely blessed that she was willing to share with me her years of experience, and brilliant ideas in making this article happen.

1)    You Should Know Your Company’s Vision and Must Intersect With Your Own Purpose

Your boss expects you to be one with your organization’s values. Ms. Yay was quick to say that employees who have their “own agenda or are very individualistic will find it hard to fit in an organization, especially if the company values teamwork, and a shared vision. Just like in any relationship, it’s important to know that you mutually understand and believe in each other. As an employee, our biggest responsibility is to set aside our personal interests for the greater benefit of the company.

2)    You Should Know What Your Job Requires

Most arguments between bosses and employees stem from the lack of knowing what it is that one should do. While some bosses are very transparent about what they need, some may be in over their heads and might not be able to orient you thoroughly. Still, it’s your responsibility to get up from your desk and ask. Set expectations to avoid misunderstandings and promote efficiency.

3)    You Should Know That It’s Okay To Ask Questions

Don’t be caught up in the thinking that you’re unqualified or inefficient if you ask questions. Asking questions mean that you are involved in your job and would do anything to improve it. Be interested in your job, and be inquisitive, this would get you far.

4)    You Should Know That You’re Part of a Team

Ms. Yay is quick to admit that the working place is never perfect – there are people you will not get along with, and some would even be obnoxious, but your boss wants you to know that you must rise above that in order to promote a harmonious working environment. Go beyond the little annoyances, and simply know that work is work. Learn as much as you can from each other (especially those from different departments) that will render you more efficient—therefore making you an asset to the team, rather than a liability.