Strokes for different folks

JUGGLING multiple bosses can be tiresome and trying. If both parties are equally demanding, the task becomes unnerving; the ordeal- a trial by fire. In today's corporate world, downsizing and retrenching are prevalent more than ever before, forcing the remaining workforce to take to multitasking.

Workforce crunching will keep increasing in the future, so learning to cope with its pressures and implications is a must- know for every professional. Workers who coordinate with multiple bosses may just about manage to stay alive as long as the going is good, but if there is a breach in deadlines or work becomes overwhelming, it can lead to high stress levels that can be debilitating. Keeping the mounting tension at bay and warding off headaches and heartaches need more than sheer tact and discretion.

To handle multiple bosses adeptly try this-Juggle, don't muddle (subheading)

To avoid frequent run-ins with your bosses ensure that you deliver on time and in quality. No boss will go out of his way to be difficult with you if you are professional and focused. Resist the temptation of boss favouritism- at least don't let it interfere with your work. Try being objective about your work. Work well done is always a reward in itself, especially if you are working for a hard-to-please person.

Vigilance prioritising (subheading)

Before taking on any task, ensure you find out your actual deadline. Taking on tasks without fixed deadlines can be as dangerous as putting your job in jeopardy- albeit unknowingly. Watch out for priority rather than yielding to pressure and wheedling by anyone If there is a clash, explain to the concerned party about the importance the project has to the overall success of the company. Keep a constant watch on the progress of your project. Keep a safety gap before any deadline, for unexpected interruptions. Always give priority to the task that is most important, dismiss the rest.

Biting off more than you can chew (subheading)

When you are offered a task that you cannot do because of your already busy schedule, taking it up would be inadvisable, however interesting or lucrative it may be. If you need extra help, allying the support of some of your colleagues would be a good idea. Deputing some of the work to juniors is another option that can give you the time you require to handle new assignments. If you can't do the job, suggest someone else you think is capable. If you feel overwhelmed at any point of time, it would be better to pull back, or ask for reinforcements.

Keeping all parties happy (subheading)

It is important that you don't depend wholly on appreciation from higher-ups in order to stay motivated. Set standards for yourself and celebrate whenever you deliver successfully. Watch out for what your boss may be finicky about. If you know that he dislikes something, it is foolish to do it and incur his wrath. It can be tough keeping track of each bosses' preferences but it is worth the trouble. Understanding your boss' style of working can reduce a lot of stress, and increase your productivity. If your boss gives a lot of importance to detail, then take care of the finer aspects and make sure you mention them to him. If your boss is particular about reporting on time at the workplace, do so.

Finding time with each boss (subheading)

Make sure you spend enough time with your bosses. It is one thing to be professional, and another thing to keep out of his way all the time. Make sure you meet-up with them to talk business, general matters, finding out their opinion or keeping them updated about your progress. If you are working in a liberal environment you can give your insights and inputs to improve organisational working. Meet each boss individually and not in a meeting where they are all together. Make use of opportunities when travelling or waiting for an appointment to discuss work related issues.

When you are caught in the crossfire (subheading)When office politics become the reason for skirmishes you might end up taking the brunt from both ends. This is even more pronounced when the bosses are at loggerheads with each other or, they just don't get along. The best thing to do in such a situation is to opt out of working for both of them, and stick to only one party, or reach a mutually agreeable understanding.

Snap out of interruptions and don't be taken up by too many distractions, since working for multiple bosses can be demanding and may require a little more of your concentration. Don't jump from one task to another totally unconnected one, finish whatever you have started and stick with it till you see it to completion. Persevere, and it will be a huge leaning process for you, as your chances of growth can be two fold, if you hang in there even if the going gets tough.

ARCHANA JAYAKAR