What do you do if your boss keeps shifting priorities?

1 Understand Why

When faced with a boss who frequently shifts priorities, your first step is to understand the reasons behind these changes. Engage in a conversation with your boss to get clarity on the broader business objectives that are driving the shifts. Sometimes, what seems like capriciousness may actually be a response to external pressures or new information that you're not aware of. By understanding the context, you can better align your work with the company's goals and anticipate future changes. This understanding will also allow you to prioritize tasks more effectively and push back when necessary with reasoned arguments that align with your boss's objectives.

2 Open Dialogue

Maintaining an open line of communication with your boss is essential when priorities are in flux. Approach your boss with a constructive attitude and express your concerns about the impact of changing priorities on your work and morale. Be prepared to suggest solutions or alternatives that can help minimize disruption. For example, you might propose a weekly check-in to discuss priorities or a system for ranking tasks by importance and urgency. By initiating this dialogue, you show that you're proactive and invested in finding ways to work more effectively, which can foster a better understanding between you and your boss.

3 Manage Time

Effective time management becomes even more critical when you're juggling shifting priorities. Develop a flexible but structured schedule that allows you to adapt to changes without becoming overwhelmed. Utilize tools like to-do lists or project management software to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Prioritize work that aligns with the most current set of objectives and be willing to re-evaluate your plan as new information comes in. This approach will help you stay on top of your workload and reduce stress, even when your boss's priorities are moving targets.

4 Set Boundaries

While adaptability is important, it's also necessary to set boundaries to prevent burnout. If continuous priority shifts are leading to excessive overtime or stress, it's time to have a candid conversation with your boss about your capacity. Explain the impact of the frequent changes on your ability to deliver quality work and propose a more sustainable approach. Setting boundaries might include asking for more notice before changes are implemented or requesting additional resources to manage the workload. Remember, it's in your boss's interest for you to be productive and not burnt out.

5 Offer Feedback

If the priority shifts are a recurring issue, consider providing feedback on how the process could be improved. Frame your feedback positively, focusing on how changes could benefit the team's efficiency and output. For example, you might suggest implementing a prioritization framework or improving the flow of information so that everyone understands why changes are made. By offering constructive feedback, you demonstrate leadership and a commitment to improving team dynamics, which may influence your boss to consider more stable planning methods.

6 Reflect & Adapt

Finally, use this experience as an opportunity for personal growth. Reflect on how you handle change and look for ways to improve your adaptability and resilience. Consider seeking out resources or training that could help you manage shifting priorities more effectively. Additionally, share your coping strategies with colleagues who might also be struggling. By adapting to these challenges, you not only become a more valuable employee but also develop interpersonal skills that will serve you well throughout your career.

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?