Decode your boss's management style

- How I long for the '60s. Back in those days, there were promotional prizes inside boxes of breakfast cereal. Sometimes you'd find a whistle, or a toy car, or a puzzle, but the best prize was the secret decoder ring. Well, consider me your decoder ring because in this video we're going to unlock the hidden secrets of your boss's management style. Volatility in the work place is the new norm. New bosses seem to arrive daily. The faster you can decode your boss, the faster you can start building your relationship. When deciphering your boss, consider these things. First, never make assumptions. Don't assume the communication style that worked with your previous boss is going to work well with the new boss. Ask your boss how he wants to receive communications from you. Does he prefer a weekly status report or a daily text? Would he rather get together weekly or meet only when necessary? Next, scan your environment. What's the climate like? Is everything so fast paced that your boss has little time for the details and barely time for the facts? I had a boss once who always looked at his watch five minutes into our conversation. I learned quickly that all he wanted was the facts. Management styles can be identified by the way a manager uses authority, how they relate to others, if they encourage and value input from their people, and by how they communicate. Managers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. The first are dictatorial managers. These are the ones who give orders, make all the decisions, and allow very little discussion. Surviving this kind of boss requires you to pick your battles, do your job well, and anticipate your boss's needs. A laissez-faire manager is hands-off. doesn't communicate very much, and believes people know exactly what to do without being told. The best way to manage a laissez-faire boss is to ask clarifying questions, keep them informed, and learn to manage your own performance. One way to do that is to hand your boss a self evaluation several weeks before your performance review is due. This will help to ensure that your great work is recognized, since this type of leader manages from a distance. How about bureaucratic managers? You know this one. They're the control freaks. This person does everything by the rules. They want structure, systems, and norms. If you have a boss like this, you'll want to learn the rules and follow protocol. Then do whatever you can to get your boss promoted. And finally, the consultative managers. This manager involves others, values input, and recognizes people for their contributions. If you're fortunate to have this type of boss, always be prepared and be ready to present ideas, and don't forget to demonstrate your appreciation for having such a great boss. Your boss is one of the most important people in your life, and it's important that the two of you develop a prosperous and peaceful relationship. So take the time and learn how to decode your boss's management style.