Here's how you can successfully handle your boss's expectations and workload.

I had this conversation with a former boss. It started with me explaining I don't simply follow orders and do what is asked. Instead I work to understand the real problem to solve (not what is the task at hand). Then I come back with a plan against the real problem (which is usually an easier and more impactful path forward). In the end my response is more tailored, more effective and usually blows my boss away. Keep in mind we are hired to think and the most important part of that is figuring out the real problem. There are times I have had to return multiple times to my boss to really understand and work with them to articulate what is the real problem to solve. Just executing a boss' expectations is not enough to succeed.

Start by clearly understanding your boss's expectations. Schedule regular meetings to discuss goals, priorities, and specific tasks. Ask for clarification on any ambiguous instructions and confirm deadlines and deliverables. Knowing exactly what is expected of you helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you can meet your boss’s standards effectively.

Entender as expectativas do outro não significa que deve atendê-las como obrigação. É importante estabelecer limites e na verdade, ALINHAR expectativas, para garantir compreensão MÚTUA.

This is controversial but that's the reality. Any subordinates go by what's assigned to them by their immediate boss, however it's always good to understand the wider picture and requirements from the initiator who is way too high in the channel of reporting. As the senior most mostly will resonate his requirements from a firm's POV and when it gets passed on to the foot soldiers it gets diluted with unnecessary requirements and other goals. So if possible always understand how the piece of work is fitting in forms requirements.

Discuss your assigned activities and understand your deliverables. Review and present any envisaged challenges. Report your progress via email and touchbase meetings. This way any issues can be easily resolved or strategy aligned to make progress with assigned activities and meet expectations.

Pareto principle is a great framework to present to your boss to help you prioritize some things and let others go. Pareto suggests that roughly 80% of consequences (output) come from 20% of causes (input). For example, perhaps 80% of library books are check out to 20% of library card holders. For your workload that means that 20 percent of your to-do list is responsible for 80 percent of your value! It also means that there a lot of low yield tasks occupying space on your list. Work together with your boss to determine high yield versus low yield tasks.

Prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. Use tools like to-do lists, project management software, or prioritization matrices (e.g., Eisenhower Matrix) to organize your workload. Focus on high-impact tasks that align with your boss’s most critical goals. Regularly review and adjust your priorities as needed to stay on track.

Once you have a list of tasks in hand know the capacity of self / resources who would work on a project, prioritising work is almost essential, also communicating the same to over teams plan of work is important to avoid unnecessary distraction. One can use any tool comfortable to do so. However,make sure prioritisation is done keeping in mind the importance of work, it's impact on other stakeholders, it's necessity for a overall goal/ milestone, cost and resource.

Maintain clear and open communication with your boss. Provide regular updates on your progress, flag any potential issues early, and seek feedback. Clear communication helps build trust and ensures that you are aligned with your boss’s expectations. If you encounter challenges, discuss them proactively and suggest possible solutions.

There are two things here 1: Understanding 2: Willingness If you want to actually understand what the boss is trying to say then please ask them clearly. If they are not clear please explain where is the Gap. If you do not have willingness or the bandwidth for a task tell them upfront and that might actually lead to better situations.

Communicating at the start of work and consistent feedback helps. Always ensure that key milestones , impacts, dependencies are well communicated and feedback are sought and course is adjusted as and when required.

Implement effective time management strategies to handle your workload efficiently. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, set realistic deadlines, and allocate specific time blocks for focused work. Avoid multitasking and minimize distractions to maintain productivity. Time management techniques such as Pomodoro, time blocking, and batching similar tasks can help you stay organized and efficient.

Don’t hesitate to seek support when needed. Whether it’s delegating tasks to team members, asking for guidance from colleagues, or utilizing available resources, seeking help can ease your workload and improve overall efficiency. Collaboration and teamwork often lead to better outcomes and a more manageable workload.

Regularly reflect on your performance and workload management strategies. Assess what’s working well and identify areas for improvement. Be open to adjusting your approach based on feedback and new insights. Continuous reflection and adjustment help you stay adaptable and responsive to changing demands.

Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to prevent burnout. Ensure you have a healthy work-life balance by setting limits on your work hours and taking regular breaks. Document Processes: Keep detailed records of your tasks, processes, and progress. Documentation can help you track your work, identify bottlenecks, and provide transparency to your boss. Stay Proactive: Anticipate your boss’s needs and be proactive in addressing them. Look for opportunities to add value, streamline processes, and improve efficiency. Develop Skills: Continuously develop your skills and knowledge. Investing in your professional growth makes you more competent and confident in handling your workload and meeting expectations.