Difficult Conversations with Your Boss

Your boss has a different agenda

As the owner / one of the owners of the business, your boss’ priority would be what is beneficial to the firm. As a small employee, your main concern would be what is beneficial to you. Even though the firm is made up of the employees as well, more often than not, the employees’ personal career goals are not valued. Hence, when approaching your boss to discuss your career development, the agenda is bound to be misaligned and the conversation is set to be a war. Grooming you and taking care of your career goals contributes to your self-development. Albeit that might improve your skillset and productivity, the effect to the firm takes time.

Your boss has an aura

What does it takes to be a boss? In a cut-throat business environment, one who stands out will have to have the confidence, the knowledge, the ambition, the aggression, the list goes on. Your boss is thus likely to be more outspoken and tactical than you. This creates an aura for your boss that makes a small employee to be at a disadvantageous starting point.

You just have no balls

Frankly, in an organisation with clear hierarchy, it might be difficult to make a proposal to your superiors — let alone one that is not directly beneficial to them.

Regardless, do still take the initiative and seize the opportunity to do so. It is after all, your career path.