Do You really know what the boss wants?

I have had really different bosses @ C level with very diverse personalities. I have been a C-Level boss and know my limitations!
Unfortunately, many managers are not the motivational leaders they themselves think they are. Some even feel threatened by the next generation or anybody with more energy, innovative ideas and better skill-sets than them. Instead of being grateful and eager to have talented people who can tell them the way to go, they ignore them and focus their energy on themselves.

My message here to upcoming leaders, and I take a leaf out of my own book, is to tame it down, listen more and only contribute when the value added is really there. Practice the „elevator speech“; if you get 20 minutes to present an idea, do it 10 and have time for discussion. Bring ideas in a humble way. If your idea becomes their idea you have won.

Getting Objectives right
When it comes to setting annual objectives, first ask the boss how you think you can contribute. Ask them for the result areas. It is key to bring your own ideas on what your SMART objectives could be. Care should be taken to make sure these are relevant, challenging and understood by others. At the end of the year, at the appraisal review, make sure you succintly document your achievements; forget the things that were less successful. A good boss will take their time and make their own judgement. Lastly, express your personal development and training wishes even if the boss does not bring this up!

This is the of of a series of reflections dedicated to aspiring next Gen leaders.