Last updated on Jul 3, 2024

Here's how you can convey your need for support and resources to your boss.

When you're feeling overwhelmed at work, it's crucial to communicate your need for additional support and resources to your boss effectively. This can be a delicate conversation, but with the right approach, you can make your needs clear without coming off as complaining or incapable. It's about finding the balance between being assertive and being cooperative, ensuring that you and your boss are on the same page regarding your workload and the resources needed to manage it successfully.

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1 Prepare Well

Before approaching your boss, take the time to prepare. Identify specifically what kind of support or resources you need, whether it's more team members, training, or access to certain tools. Consider how these will help you achieve your objectives and contribute to the company's goals. Having a clear and rational explanation ready will demonstrate that you've thought the issue through and are not just reacting emotionally. Preparation shows your commitment to finding a solution rather than just presenting a problem.

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Marumo n Lehumo HR Solutions

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The purpose of Training & Development Some businesses only rely on training during periods of employee turnover or when there is a significant change to the business. Top performing companies, on the other hand, understand that it’s important to deliver consistent and ongoing training Training objectives Deliver essential knowledge Training is one of the most effective ways to equip employees with the knowledge they need to be successful. This includes company and role-specific training Equip & improve skills Skill development is an important aspect of every training program because new employees need to learn technical and soft skills. Seasoned employees need ongoing training in order to improve and keep their skills up-to par over time

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2 Right Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to discussing your needs with your boss. Look for a moment when your boss is not preoccupied with their own deadlines or stressors. This might be during a scheduled one-on-one meeting or at a time when you know they're typically more relaxed and open to discussion. Approaching them when they're in a good position to listen will increase the chances of a positive outcome and ensure that your message is heard.

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HR Policy & Processes Provide employees with a framework to understand the advantages derived from the processes' consistency The policies help a company exhibit, externally and internally, that it meets the needs for diversity, ethics, and training, along with commitment regarding corporate governance and rules. For example, it is necessary to meet employment agreements and bargain contract provisions to dismiss a worker according to employment law requirements and other considerations HR policies are excellent at supporting and developing the needed business culture, for instance, hiring and retention practices may describe how the business treats a flexible workforce

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3 Express Clearly

Clear communication is key. When you speak with your boss, be concise and articulate the support or resources you need without ambiguity. Avoid using jargon or overly technical language unless it's common in your workplace. Explain how the additional support will enable you to perform better and how it aligns with the team's or organization's objectives. Clarity will prevent misunderstandings and show that you're seeking a practical solution.

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Remote HR Services Marumo & Lehumo HR consulting practice and provide expert advice and guidance to organizations in matters related to human resources. Our services involve working closely with the management team to develop and implement effective HR strategies, policies, and programs that align with any business goals and objectives Our role as Human Resource consulting firm is to assess the business HR functions and identify areas for improvement, and offer tailored solutions to optimize the workforce's productivity and engagement. We collaborate with key stakeholders, including executives, managers, and employees, to understand their needs and design strategies that foster a positive and inclusive work environment

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4 Show Initiative

Demonstrate your willingness to be part of the solution. Suggest possible ways to address the resource gap, whether it's reallocating existing resources, bringing in temporary help, or adjusting project timelines. This shows that you're proactive and not merely shifting the responsibility onto your boss. By offering potential solutions, you're engaging in collaborative problem-solving, which is more likely to result in a favorable response.

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5 Follow Up

After your initial conversation, don't let the matter drop. Follow up with your boss to demonstrate your ongoing interest in resolving the issue. This could be through a formal email summarizing your discussion, setting a date for checking in on progress, or offering additional insights into why the support is necessary. Persistent, polite follow-up keeps the conversation alive and shows that you're serious about the need for additional resources.

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6 Reflect Positively

End your conversation on a positive note by expressing gratitude for your boss's time and consideration. This reinforces a positive relationship and shows that you appreciate their position and the challenges they face in allocating resources. A positive attitude can make all the difference in how your request is received and remembered, setting the stage for a constructive ongoing dialogue about your needs and contributions to the team.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can convey your need for support and resources to your boss.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Prepare Well

2 Right Timing

3 Express Clearly

4 Show Initiative

5 Follow Up

6 Reflect Positively

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Communication

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Here's how you can convey your need for support and resources to your boss.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Prepare Well

2 Right Timing

3 Express Clearly

4 Show Initiative

5 Follow Up

6 Reflect Positively

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Communication

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