Try these 3 things when you're not on the same page with your boss

No matter how skilled or experienced you are, there will be times when you and your boss just don’t see eye to eye. Whether it’s a difference in communication styles, priorities, or expectations, misalignment can lead to frustration, confusion, and even stalled tactical of strategic plans. But don’t worry—being out of sync doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

Here are three practical strategies to help you bridge the gap and get back on track:

1. Clarify Expectations—Then Clarify Again

Misunderstandings often stem from assumptions. What you think your boss wants and what they actually expect might be two very different things. Instead of guessing, take the initiative to clarify.

Try this:

• Ask direct questions like, “What does success look like for this project?” or “Can you walk me through your priorities for this week?”

• Summarize what you’ve heard and repeat it back to ensure alignment.

• Request examples or templates if you're unsure about the format or tone they prefer.

Why it works: It shows initiative, reduces ambiguity, and builds trust by demonstrating that you're committed to delivering what’s needed.

2. Adapt Your Communication Style

Sometimes it’s not what you say, but how you say it. If your boss is more data-driven and you’re more narrative, or vice versa, your updates might not land the way you intend.

Try this:

• Observe how your boss communicates. Do they prefer bullet points or detailed reports? Quick chats or formal emails?

• Mirror their style when appropriate to make your messages easier to digest.

• Ask for feedback on how they prefer to receive updates or progress reports.

Why it works: Adapting your style shows emotional intelligence and makes collaboration smoother and more efficient.

3. Focus on Shared Goals, Not Personal Differences

When tensions rise, it’s easy to take things personally. But often, the root issue isn’t about personalities- it’s priorities. Re-centering the conversation around shared goals/daily or weekly priorities can help shift the dynamic from conflict to collaboration.

Try this:

• Reframe disagreements by saying, “I think we both want this project to succeed. So, can we discuss how to get there based upon your current line of thinking?”

• Highlight common objectives and suggest compromises that serve the bigger picture.

• Stay solution-focused, even when emotions run high.

Why it works: It keeps the conversation constructive and reminds both parties that you’re on the same team.

Final Thoughts

Disagreements with your boss don’t have to derail your progress; in fact, differing opinions and approaches can be healthy when handled in real time vs. festering and with respect.

With a little clarity, adaptability, and a focus on shared goals, you can turn misalignment into an opportunity for stronger collaboration and professional growth.

Remember: It’s not about winning the argument; it’s about building a better working relationship and increasing your emotional intelligence to serve your clients, customers, patients and your team better. None of us are perfect; but we all should be perfectly ok with a willingness to learn :-)