How to Deal With a Boss That Is Too Busy to Meet
- 1). Go in early or stay late. A work schedule that allows you to come in later, or leave earlier than your boss can be a well deserved perk on the job. However, when you work different hours than your boss, you may have a difficult time finding convenient meeting times. Get to know your manager's schedule and modify yours slightly on days when you want to meet. For example, you may be able to catch your boss in the office first thing in the morning before regular business begins, or after hours.
- 2). Schedule appointments when you need to talk. When your boss's calendar stays full, the best way to meet can be to send her a memo telling her that you would like an appointment. Include the subject matter you want to discuss in the memo so that your boss knows what to expect. Talk to your boss's secretary ifshe has one, and ask the secretary to schedule a meeting for you. Client and business meetings have priority with your boss, but you may be able to get an appointment if you can to wait till your boss has free time.
- 3). Talk to your assistant manager about your concerns. If your manager has an assistant manager, she may delegate some staff interaction to the assistant. Know and follow the chain of command in your department when you have a problem or concern. Schedule a meeting with your assistant manager if your issue or concern falls in the assistant's responsibility. Ask the assistant to convey your concerns to the manager if necessary. Keep notes from meetings with the assistant in case you need to refer to them in future meetings with management.
- 4). Invite your boss to a group lunch or coffee break. Sometimes productive business meetings can happen off premises. Communicating with your boss in an informal setting can be an opportunity for your boss to get to know you better. Your boss may be more open to ideas you present in a relaxed setting.
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