Influence without Authority, Second Edition

Chapter 8. Influencing Your Boss

Could you be more effective with your boss so that you are granted more latitude, more support, or more challenging assignments? Or is there something about your boss's management style that you would like to influence, such as his or her being more effective in dealing with higher-ups? The challenge is to gain influence with your boss so that it can build your relationship rather than threaten it. There are too many managers and leaders who are not very good bosses, and those who are good could be even better.

What might surprise you, however, is our belief that your boss's effectiveness is part of your job. It starts with you. You are, in part, responsible for helping your boss be a more effective manager and a better boss to you. Whether you or your boss see it that way, you are partners in making your department or team work well:

• Your boss has only half the relevant information. It would be lovely if every boss knew exactly what you needed and provided it without your asking, but that is not likely. Your boss is not a mind reader—you are the one who knows best how you can be managed to achieve your potential.

• The world is growing so complex that bosses couldn't handle everything even if they wanted to. They are too overloaded, and subordinates come in too many differing styles. Also, subordinates often have knowledge and special competencies that must be used if excellence is to be achieved.

• You have expertise about how well your manager's intentions ...