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Going One-on-One with the Boss
If such measures don't improve your performance—or you require help you can't afford—ask your employer for help. When considering such a request, remember that it must be "reasonable." If you work for a small nonprofit, requesting a software program that costs $500 is out of line. If you work for a law firm that bills your time at $250 or more per hour, ask away! Here's how to arrange and conduct a one-on-one:
1. Set it up. Stick your head in your boss's office and say, "I’d like some time to talk with you about my performance and about how I can do better. I enjoy my job, and I think that, with your support, I can become more productive." Confirm the meeting time and agenda with an e-mail. Make it short, listing your performance goals, not the requests you will make to meet those goals. Save those for the meeting.
2. Be prepared. Decide on one or two accommodations that will help you do a better job (see "Common Workplace Accommodations"). Have sound, persuasive reasons as to why, for instance, telecommuting will increase your productivity. Use numbers and specifics to make your case: "Working at home one day a week would allow me to get next month's reports done two weeks ahead of deadline."
3. Establish the right tone. Make your requests for accommodations at work from a position of strength. Use positive statements, such as, "I work best in a quiet environment. A noise-blocking headset would allow me to finish my reports sooner." Don't say, "Those reports take forever, because I have a hard time paying attention. I need a noise-blocking headset." Make a request, not a demand.
Language matters, too. Talk about problems—in time management, organization, meeting deadlines—and possible solutions in business terms. Avoid the A-word, accommodation, unless you're prepared to disclose your condition.
At the end of the meeting, summarize the discussion and the agreements that have been reached, to make sure you and your boss see the situation the same way.
My client, Andrea, who chose not to disclose her ADD, worked long hours at a public-relations firm, and she still missed deadlines. She was a perfectionist, and she was often sidetracked by small details. Her solution? She requested more frequent check-ins with her boss—morning phone meetings—to keep her on track. The five-minute chats allowed the boss to re-direct Andrea's efforts when she veered off course.
Despite your best efforts, your boss may deny your request. If so, consider purchasing the items you need yourself. If, say, an expensive noise-blocking headset will save your job, it is an excellent investment to make in this tough economy.
Next: When You Should Disclose...
This article comes from the Summer 2009 issue of ADDitude.
To read this issue of ADDitude in full, SUBSCRIBE NOW!
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