I am a graduate assistant for the promotions director for the television station that is affiliated with the university I attend. Recently I’ve been unconfident in my ability to perform for my boss. It’s not like my work ethic is poor, but I feel as if I make more mistakes then I should.
I want to improve as quickly as I can in an attempt to have a job request close to when I’m finishing my thesis. Also because her future recommendation is crucial to my resume.
I want to talk to my boss privately and ask what my strengths and weaknesses are and how I may improve, but I’m not sure if that’s proper boss-to-worker etiquette. It seems that asking for help would be proper, but I still see the situation being awkward for some reason.
So my question is do you think it would be proper etiquette to approach my boss about how I may improve?
And if so, how I do I not make it sound like a desperate attempt to gain approval?
Please, I only want answers if you can also recommend as to how to go about the situation, or reasons for why I should not proceed.
Thank you in advance.
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Should I Talk To My Boss About My Strengths And My Weaknesses?
Posted on May 11, 2011.
The “to gain approval” is not something that should be sought after in the first place when it comes to bettering yourself and your potential career. It is completely acceptable to approach your boss, and request a moment to discuss your job performance. If your boss is someone that you look up to, then by all means, seek the information. That trainees get their foot in the door.
However, clarify that the request is strictly for your personal benefit, so that you can perform your best for the company. Efficiency is key. Also, your boss should be giving you a 30 and/or 90 day review. If these are not provided (or if they were already given), you should be more than welcome to approach and ask for an additional review.
Simply approach her and ask if she has a moment. If she does, ask her in a professional manner if she has any insight that she could offer to you to perform at a higher efficiency than you are currently performing at. It is not incorrect to let her know that you do value her opinion, but I do not personally recommend informing her of how much you rely on her future recommendation. Just in case.