This is tricky territory. Getting alignment is important. Without it, you risk becoming demotivated and less effective in your role. When there is a lack of alignment, it’s time to take a step back, and ask some important questions:
- Where do I want to take my career in the next year, 2 years, 5 years?
- Why are these goals important to me?
- What skills and experiences do I need to get there?
- How could the plans that my boss/organization has for me contribute to my professional success?
- Is there a middle ground – an alternate plan that would align with organizational priorities as well as my own professional goals?
- How would I feel if I were in my boss’ shoes managing me? Are there factors I’m not considering in my own plans that I should be looking at?
Before you engage in a conversation about the misalignment of your goals, talk with someone you trust such as a colleague, coach or mentor about creative alternatives that might exist that will satisfy both your needs as well as those of your organization. It’s also helpful to role play how you might approach the goal conversation diplomatically and openly.
Here is a helpful article that discusses tips for how to disagree with your boss.
