When trying to balance your work and family commitments, it helps to have a boss who is understanding and supportive: someone who doesn’t raise an eyebrow when you sign off early to attend a school event or take a personal day to accompany an aging parent to a doctor’s appointment.
When Your Boss Doesn’t Respect Your Family Commitments
Working for a boss who dismisses your family commitments can be exhausting. This is particularly challenging during the pandemic when many people’s work and home lives have collided. How should you handle a boss who refuses to acknowledge the other demands on your time? You can start by having a one-on-one conversation in which you’re honest and transparent about your situation. Describe the additional responsibilities you’ve taken on at home, but also exude confidence and commitment to your organization. Ask your boss about their pain points and priorities, and then place their objectives front and center of your work agenda. Make it clear you have a plan for how you’ll work day-to-day, as well contingencies for when and if circumstances shift. Your boss needs to know that you’ve got the situation under control.