How to help your leader

When you meet with your leader, understand that there are many socio-psycho-politico-econo-environmental issues that they are dealing with. And that yours is just one of them. This sounds harsh, but the smile behind, "we'll see what we can do", should tell you that what I am saying is true. Leaders carry a great deal of weight even if they don't look like it. Good leaders are very good at hiding it from you. Frustrated leaders tend to shout at you. So here is how you can you help your leader?

First, appreciate the work they do. Everybody likes some appreciation. It is human, natural and will win you their full attention.

Second, listen to them. This may surprise you, but think about it for a moment – who listens to them. That is the only way you will get to know what the real issues are.

Third, understand that leadership is not a single solution math problem. Leadership challenges are compound and complex. Leaders try hard to look for the best solution.

Fourth, don't come with a problem. Every leader has enough of those. The problem may even include you. Come with a participative solution and request permission, opportunity or resources to help solve the problem.

Fifth, please do your homework and don't waste time. Leaders have no more time than you. Yet are expected to do ten times more than you.

Sixth, let them know when they are doing okay and help them to do okay.

Here is a bonus. Do yourself a favor. Don't storm the office fuming, frothing and stewing at the mouth demanding answers as if yours is the only problem in the world. It makes you look bad. Actually, it belittles your dignity and makes your objectives look suspect. And it does not matter that you are the customer.

Allan Bukusi