July 25, 2012

Q&A: New employee wants to suggest changes

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By Marie G. McIntyre / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
Q: Since joining this company a few weeks ago, I have noticed a lot of areas that need improvement. However, I'm not sure how honest I should be in sharing my views with management. In my previous job, I was always very open about my opinions. If I saw a problem, I simply described it to my boss and proposed a solution, but I'm not sure this would be welcomed in my new organization. What do you think?

A: As a newbie, you are wise to be cautious about offering suggestions too quickly. Many recent hires unintentionally offend their new employer by criticizing current practices or making comparisons with their previous workplace. This is an easy mistake to make, because new arrivals are viewing everything with fresh eyes.

At the same time, however, you do want to give management the benefit of your experience, since that is presumably why you were hired. The secret is to present your ideas in a way that sounds respectful and helpful, not arrogant and critical.

To accomplish this, you must first take the time to understand why things are the way they are. If you have changed industries or moved to a different area, there will be a lot to learn about your new environment. You must also familiarize yourself with the company's history, culture, and leadership style.

When you do propose a change, make it a suggestion, not a directive. If you firmly declare that the company must get rid of its outdated software, you will sound inappropriately dictatorial. But if you offer to arrange a demonstration of the latest technology, you will appear to be helpful and forward-thinking.

To reduce defensive reactions to your suggestions, try using this simple three-step formula: make a factual observation about the current practice, ask a question to understand the past, then explain the benefits of your idea.

For example, you might start by saying "I've noticed that the shipping department uses a rather high-priced carrier. Was this vendor chosen for a particular reason?" If the justification seems less than compelling, offer your proposal: "I believe we could greatly reduce our costs by using a different carrier. Would you be interested in reviewing some other vendors?"

Finally, avoid making comparative comments that start with "at my last company." If you say this too often, people will begin to wonder why you didn't stay there.

Marie G. McIntyre is a workplace coach. Submit questions at yourofficecoach.com.

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Career Advice, conflict, etiquette, featured, management

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