When you get a new boss, should you defend the way your old boss used to do things?

Question

Here is the problem- the big boss is new and tells me what to do. I told my manager that he goes over her head, but two people at my level have quit because of the style change. I need my job.

Answer 1

New suggestions are good.  If the new boss had a more effective way of completing something, or an idea that just might work, I'd definitly give it a try.  If it was obviously going to make more work or be more of a hassle than the old way, I'd bring it up to the new boss.  Not rudely, just as a suggestion.  "You know, we've done it like this is the past and everything worked out very well.  What do you think?"  And if the new boss believes this would be a better way, then brownie points for you....just don't say "this is how my old boss did it".  If you boss is not open to suggestions that would make his business run better, then he's a sh*tty boss.

Answer 2

Yeah, tell 'em. Bosses love to hear how they are doing it wrong, especially by underlings. Gives them a real boost of confidence and they will love you forever. They will reward you because of the help and guidance you gave them. They may even tell you where Human Resources is so you can get your last check!.

Unless your in a foxhole and your boss tells ya to stand up and get the lay of the land. You might casually mention to him that the last guy that did that is now laying on the land!

Answer 3

If you want your job, you do what he says.  You should keep your immediate manager advised of what you have been told to do.

Answer 4

Don't say anything really. You may never know if he's going to go back and relay that information to someone and that could eventually endanger your job.

Always say good things about your old boss or anyone else - even if they had the right or wrong attitudes in the workplace.

This is only done to reflect a a very positive image of yours.

Hope this helps

Answer 5

absolutely not. nothing will get you on the bad side of your new boss quicker then defending the old boss' system.

if the big boss tells you something to do, it should be done. notify your manager of the task given to you so they do not think you are ignoring your other duties.  

Answer 6

Tough situation

Workplaces are like the military, strict chain of command.  Some up higher says to do something and its not illegal you HAVE to do it or its insubordination and you can get canned.

I'd just be open with your boss and inform him/her each time it happens.  You MUST do what the big boss says, you SHOULD however comment and make suggestions...they are paying you for your opinion I'd imagine.  

Lots of times new bosses are just different and you have to get used to their style.  Don't be surprised if everyone is gone our of your area (including you) by the time it is over, lots of managers "make it over in their image (must be an ego thing)" and want to pick their own people

Just hang on....

Answer 7

I think you should let him know with respect how everything runs. Let him know what you think but remember he is the boss and everything changes for an sample every were you go there's different rules hey is like when u started a new relationship is never the same. So if he does not listen just do everything how he wants it to be done.

Answer 8

sure...if u wanna get fired soon