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The Personal Touch: Traveling With Your Boss—Career Maker or Breaker?
October 03, 2008
It is the test that separates stars from the supporting cast. Learn how you can use this time to prove your value and build your career.
By Jeff Schmitt
"Pack your bags. We're heading to Kansas City." Wait, We?
That's right, it's time for a road trip. Ahh, the memories: flight delays, sweaty suits and ankle-cracking heels. Racing the clock. The interstates, cities and hotels blend together. You're hot, cold, weary, bouncy, numb and sharp—all at once. On top of that, your boss is coming too.
This trip takes it to a whole different level. Yes, he (or she) controls your career and livelihood. This person determines whether you stay or go, whether you pay the mortgage or move again. Eventually, your boss could bring you along to the corporate suite—or leave you behind in the cubicles. You are exposed to your boss daily, but only in short blocks of time.
Still, traveling with your boss is a great opportunity. It is your chance to get face time, learn and showcase your strengths. It is your chance to raise your stature and prove yourself. But to take advantage of this opportunity, you must follow certain rules:
1. Observe the Code of the Road.
On a road trip, you are stepping into privileged territory. You may overhear snippets of cell phone conversations. You may learn about petty rivalries, new initiatives and dysfunctional operations—not to mention the standard gossip and innuendo. Chances are, you'll see the inner workings of upper management—and they aren't always smooth, logical or noble.
Like Vegas, what happens on the road stays there. Your boss needs to know that he can trust you. Don't share what you learn with your colleagues. File everything away mentally. This knowledge can only guide you as your visibility and responsibilities increase.
2. Keep Your Guard Up.
Your boss is constantly evaluating you. Can you do the job? What drives you? Will you make him look good—or eventually cause embarrassment? A trip is no different than an extended job interview. Stay professional at all times and always keep yourself in the best light. That means maintaining your cool, using proactive and positive language, avoiding complaints or criticism and staying on topics that build rapport, not stir debate. It means being punctual, organized and using proper etiquette no matter when and where.
Most importantly, it means striking a balance between engagement and detachment. Away from home, your boss may drop his guard. He may share his marital woes or career disillusionment. You may interpret these confidences as an invitation to reciprocate.
Don't.
Working relationships are so tenuous. Your confidante today could easily betray you tomorrow. Resist the temptation to bring your boss into your inner life. Don’t share your past faults or day-to-day struggles—they just rouse concerns and supply ammunition later. Instead, listen, offer helpful advice, re-direct with humor. This helps you bond just as well.
3. Observe.
Your boss is in charge for a reason. He has strong technical aptitude, industry and institutional knowledge, people skills and connections. He probably holds the position and possesses the traits you covet. Why not watch your boss? How does he manage his time? What is important? What waits? What does he do when he interacts with others? How does he resolve conflicts? Use your time to watch, learn and mirror.
Similarly, make an effort to learn about your boss. What principles guide him at work? What interests him outside work? What are your boss' major do's and don'ts? People love talking about themselves; your boss is probably no different. Figure out what makes him tick. File it away for future dialogues.
4. Use Your Time Strategically.
On any trip, you are bound to have plenty of lag time. What are your objectives during these times? Would this be a good time to pitch an idea or two? Drop a few of your accomplishments? Learn how your boss reached his level—and what you need to do to take that next step? Always look for those spare moments—and be ready to capitalize on them.
5. Pitch In.
When you travel, you're stepping out of your comfort zone. You won't have all your tools. It can be hard to reach the right people. The unexpected can wreak havoc on your objectives and schedule. When this happens, offer to help. Free up your boss and experience his world. Take that rare shot to truly prove yourself.
Come prepared. Bring spare supplies, from mints to an extra cell phone charger. Be willing to take the wheel so your boss can catch some much-needed sleep. Know where your boss likes to eat and have directions to get there.
Always remember: whatever makes your boss' life easier makes yours easier too. Talent and accomplishment only take you so far. Fair or not, leaders promote the people who they like, relate to and trust. A road trip is a chance to advance your career by setting the stage for all of the above.
S&MM online columnist Jeff Schmitt is a consultant from Dubuque, IA. His column, "The Personal Touch," is designed to help managers and professionals step back and evaluate how they think, interact and work. His e-mail is jschmittdbq@mchsi.com.
Sales & Marketing Management Magazine
This article is brought to you by Sales & Marketing Management, the leading authority for executives in the sales and marketing field.
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