You’ve got a new boss who’s making hasty decisions, shaking up the workflow, and constantly leaving you scrambling to keep up. How can you respond? First, take a deep breath. It’s tempting to feel frustrated, but practicing empathy can shift your perspective. Remember, they’re likely under a lot of pressure. Give them some grace. Offer support by asking, “What do you need? How can I help?” Position yourself as an ally who can help them understand organizational dynamics. This helps build trust and encourages more-informed decision-making. When you disagree with a decision, resist the urge to react negatively. Instead, ask open-ended questions like, “How does this help the team?” or “Can you share the factors behind this choice?” Being curious, not confrontational, will lead to more productive conversations. Finally, focus on what you can control. You may not agree with every decision, but you have to learn to practice acceptance. If you think their decisions are detrimental to the organization, it’s okay to escalate—but do so thoughtfully. In the meantime, take care of yourself and maintain a positive dialogue with your coworkers. Supporting each other will make navigating these changes smoother for everyone.
This tip is adapted from “When Your New Boss Won’t Stop Making Hasty Decisions,” by Rebecca Knight.
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