Friday Freebie 3: being the right hand to the boss.
The crown is heavy and folks hold it differently. Luckily, I've had great bosses but not always. Being the boss is never easy. As right hand, you learn a lot.
I strongly recommend 2 books on this: "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene; and Tallyrand by Duff Cooper.
1. Know what type of boss you have. Law 19. Do they like genuine feedback or collaboration? A solider to follow orders? Secure or not? Managing Napoleon was not easy. He was the boss. Cross him and being fired was the least of one's worries.
At first Napoleon was open to different opinions BUT his decision was final. Genuine guidance, some flattery, the 'if this then that' approach - leading him to the final decision / let it be his idea was key. He wanted to avoid chaos/failure.
Later, Napoleon lost control of his ego. He resented those with views of their own. He hated people thinking he was dependent on the assistance of anyone else. He was bitter against talent. He wanted to be the sole voice over a good result.
An autocratic boss is rough. Not open to reality or differing opinions. Tread carefully. There is no room for open feedback or concern about a bad idea - that is seen by boss as rebellion in front of others or treason if with others.
It comes down to whether a boss really wants feedback and guidance and embraces and promotes talent or sees it as a threat. Is the boss about himself, the team, or a mix? Most bosses can be managed.
2. How to manage your boss? As Jocko Willink and Leif Babin call it, take "extreme ownership". See Law 24.
Are they micromanaging you? Give them more information to help them develop trust. Are they a great leader? Listen and learn. Don't outshine any boss - flip credit back to them. Is honesty valued?
Are you friends? Dont forget they are the boss. You cant do whatever you want. Do they withhold information? Ok, their call. Keep moving don't dwell. Be careful with sudden jumps in trust or visibility, was it earned or are you set up as scape goat. Discretion is important.
Talent and skill are not all that matter for some bosses. Knowing what battles to fight is key. They have the power to promote or fire so tactically pause before reacting. Some bosses are bullies and stress is a killer you should never be a punching bag, it's ok to leave. Genuine gratitude and feedback is good but manipulative flattery always fails.
For the autocrat, catch up with them privately. Be moderate in suggestions. If they are dug in try to mitigate the damage caused by a bad decision or if you'll be the scape goat, might be best to reach out to HR, another leader, or resign. Figure out if they prefer calls, texts, or emails - then do it.
3. Add value. Be the only one that can do what you do. Come to the table with solutions tactfully. Make their day easier. Before you commit to something make sure you can do it do it timely. Reliability is important.
Good luck,
One Vie Team
