How can you develop adaptability when working with difficult supervisors in volunteering?

1 Understand their perspective

One of the first steps to develop adaptability is to try to understand where your supervisor is coming from. What are their goals, expectations, and challenges? What are their communication and feedback styles? What are their strengths and weaknesses? By putting yourself in their shoes, you can gain some insight into their behavior and motivations, and avoid taking things personally. You can also learn from their experience and expertise, and appreciate their contribution to the organization and the cause.

2 Communicate effectively

Another key step to develop adaptability is to communicate effectively with your supervisor. This means being clear, respectful, and constructive in your interactions. You should express your ideas, opinions, and concerns in a polite and confident manner, and listen actively and empathetically to their feedback and suggestions. You should also ask for clarification, guidance, and support when you need it, and acknowledge their input and recognition when you receive it. By communicating effectively, you can build trust, rapport, and collaboration with your supervisor, and avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

3 Be flexible and open-minded

A third step to develop adaptability is to be flexible and open-minded in your approach to your volunteering tasks. This means being willing to adjust, adapt, and learn from different situations, challenges, and opportunities. You should be open to new ideas, perspectives, and methods, and embrace diversity and innovation. You should also be ready to take on new responsibilities, roles, and projects, and seek feedback and improvement. By being flexible and open-minded, you can demonstrate your initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills, and add value to your organization and the cause.

4 Manage your emotions and stress

A fourth step to develop adaptability is to manage your emotions and stress when working with difficult supervisors. This means being aware of your feelings, thoughts, and reactions, and regulating them in a positive and healthy way. You should avoid letting negative emotions such as anger, frustration, or resentment affect your performance, attitude, or relationships. You should also cope with stress by using relaxation techniques, seeking support, and maintaining a balance between your volunteering and other aspects of your life. By managing your emotions and stress, you can maintain your well-being, motivation, and resilience.

5 Seek growth and learning

A fifth step to develop adaptability is to seek growth and learning from your volunteering experience. This means reflecting on your achievements, challenges, and feedback, and identifying your strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement. You should also set goals for your personal and professional development, and pursue opportunities for learning new skills, knowledge, and competencies. You should also celebrate your successes, appreciate your progress, and reward yourself for your efforts. By seeking growth and learning, you can enhance your confidence, competence, and satisfaction.

6 Appreciate the benefits

A sixth and final step to develop adaptability is to appreciate the benefits of working with difficult supervisors in volunteering. This means recognizing the positive outcomes and impacts of your adaptability, both for yourself and for others. You should acknowledge how your adaptability has helped you cope with change, uncertainty, and diversity, and how it has improved your performance, attitude, and relationships. You should also appreciate how your adaptability has contributed to your organization and the cause, and how it has made a difference in the lives of others. By appreciating the benefits, you can reinforce your adaptability, and inspire others to do the same.

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?