4 Scary Talks To Have With Your Boss

 

"It's important to know how to initiate tough talks with your manager," says career coach Suzanne Doyle-Morris - a new study shows 61% of us delay that crucial moment for up to five days. "You have to stand-up for yourself in the workplace - and you could even bag yourself a promotion."


The chat "I'm overwhelmed"
The time to talk When you start to feel overstretched, but before you're found crying in the loos.
What to say "Do you have a few minutes to discuss my current workload and priorities?"
Your strategy "Show your boss a clear, printed (not scrawled) list of your current workload - and explain that you're keen to keep doing a good job and not let anybody down," says Doyle-Morris. "Ask for clear deadlines and help with prioritizing your tasks. Then say you've found this meeting helpful and ask what resources are available going forward. Don't assume your boss wants to make your life hell - she probably just hasn't realized how much you have on your plate."


The chat "I'm leaving"

The time to talk When you have another job offer in writing.

What to say "I've decided to leave the company"

Your strategy "Say it's been a hard decision - even if you're desperate to leave," says Clare Whitmell, founder of jobmarketsuccess.com. "Focus on the positive: detail what you've learned at the company and what you've added to the team. Be clear about when you are leaving and say you are committed to the company until that time. Bring a resignation letter, but don't hand it over until the end of the conversation, in case your employer counter-offers."


The chat "I want a promotion/pay rise"

The time to talk Following a dazzling appraisal or when a client compliments your work

What to say (smiling) I think now would be a good time to talk about my salary.

Your strategy "Don't use phrases like 'I want', 'I need' or 'I deserve'," says Doyle-Morris. "This is about presenting a business case. Quantify the results you have achieved: show how much your team has saved or earned the company, which projects went well - and how this was down to you. Tell your boss what salary you think is fair (suggest twice the increase you want) and thank them for considering your request."


The chat "I'm pregnant"

The time to talk When you're just beginning to show, but before people are gossiping.

What to say Just come straight out with it!

Your strategy "Remember, this isn't like telling the friends news," says Whitmell. "You're sharing it because you're boss needs to know so that she can make arrangements for your time off. Accept your manager's congratulations graciously, but tone down your excitement and be clear you remain committed to the company. For more information on your maternity rights in the workplace, visit direct.gov.uk

Is your boss still not listening to you? Check out adviceguide.org.uk/money/employment for more advice.