Making a request of your boss can be a daunting prospect. You want something in your job; maybe a pay rise, an extra assistant to work on a large project you are managing, or it could be some time off for a family function. In order to achieve that “something” you need to ask your boss.
Knowing how to ask can make the difference between achieving your aims or coming away rejected. Firstly, decide what it is you really want. Be clear and concise so your boss fully understands what he/she is being asked to say yes to. You can’t expect a yes from your boss to a request they don’t understand. Make it clear for them.
Show you’ve done your homework.
Don’t undermine yourself by lacking in facts. Prepare yourself with information that support what you are asking for.
Look at it from your bosses perspective.
Approach the request in a way that works for your boss too. If you know your boss is a stickler for staff having a good work/life balance and you are asking for time off, promote the benefits this time off will give you.
Be prepared, with counter arguments.
It’s quite possible your boss may say no based on his first impressions of what you are presenting. It may be a case that given more constructive arguments an initial no can become a yes.
Maintain eye contact and show conviction and belief in what you are asking for. You’re less likely to get your request if your boss suspects you have uncertainty in what you are asking for.
Ask when you’ve got his/her full attention.
Avoid asking in situations such as passing in the corridor when it’s easier to be brushed off and when your boss probably wouldn’t be fully receptive to what you are asking.
Ask the right way.
Don’t ask a question that can be answered with no, instead ask a question as if the answer is just a matter of logistics. For example ‘I need to take some time off and wanted to know how this could be made possible?’ When you’ve finished you’re request, if it’s detailed and length; summarize and define and then be fully receptive to the bosses response.
Be Gracious.
Take it on the chin if the final answer is no. Remember to stay professional and don’t sulk or bad mouth the boss. There may be valid reasons for your request being denied, and you may need to ask for something else in the future which could be jeopardized by your bad response this time.
Bio: Jen Smith is a Life Coach, Mentor & Writer. She has tried many career paths herself and now helps people achieve their goals and dreams.
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