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What is the protocol when you are talking with your boss and his phone rings?
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I've encounter several times when I am talking to my boss that his phone rings. He picks up the phone and starts talking. The talking could last for 5 minutes or 15 minutes, depending on the content of the call.
Maybe I should return later instead of waiting next to him endlessly, doing nothing but having frustration? However, I think it is rude to interject by saying: "I should look for you later." Moreover, the matter we were originally discussing is not finished so maybe I shouldn't go?
professionalism work-environment
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
add a comment |Â
up vote
35
down vote
favorite
I've encounter several times when I am talking to my boss that his phone rings. He picks up the phone and starts talking. The talking could last for 5 minutes or 15 minutes, depending on the content of the call.
Maybe I should return later instead of waiting next to him endlessly, doing nothing but having frustration? However, I think it is rude to interject by saying: "I should look for you later." Moreover, the matter we were originally discussing is not finished so maybe I shouldn't go?
professionalism work-environment
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
17
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
4
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
5
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32
add a comment |Â
up vote
35
down vote
favorite
up vote
35
down vote
favorite
I've encounter several times when I am talking to my boss that his phone rings. He picks up the phone and starts talking. The talking could last for 5 minutes or 15 minutes, depending on the content of the call.
Maybe I should return later instead of waiting next to him endlessly, doing nothing but having frustration? However, I think it is rude to interject by saying: "I should look for you later." Moreover, the matter we were originally discussing is not finished so maybe I shouldn't go?
professionalism work-environment
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
I've encounter several times when I am talking to my boss that his phone rings. He picks up the phone and starts talking. The talking could last for 5 minutes or 15 minutes, depending on the content of the call.
Maybe I should return later instead of waiting next to him endlessly, doing nothing but having frustration? However, I think it is rude to interject by saying: "I should look for you later." Moreover, the matter we were originally discussing is not finished so maybe I shouldn't go?
professionalism work-environment
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
edited Sep 14 '13 at 12:35
Rhys
5,73623558
5,73623558
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
asked Jul 23 '12 at 4:13
lamwaiman1988
94421017
94421017
17
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
4
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
5
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32
add a comment |Â
17
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
4
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
5
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32
17
17
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
4
4
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
5
5
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32
add a comment |Â
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
up vote
43
down vote
accepted
It'll depend heavily on your boss and his personality. Most of the time, when I've encountered a situation such as this, my boss has, after a few minutes, waved me off, at which point I go back to my desk and either shoot him an email or just come by later, to see when it would be a good time to finish our talk.
If that doesn't happen, and it becomes too awkward, I'd suggest standing up and moving towards the door, pointing at your watch and holding up 3 to 5 fingers, implying that you'll come back in 5 minutes. Go grab yourself a cup of water, some coffee, or check your email, and then return. If they're still not off the phone, well, keep waiting I guess.
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
add a comment |Â
up vote
19
down vote
In a perfect world your boss would let you know verbally what to do as soon as the phone rang. Most offices have caller ID, so they have a good idea of who is calling before they answer the phone.
Normally I would expect one of several actions from the person whose office I am in:
I can ignore this call for a few minutes, I will call them back later. This means your conversation will continue.
Wait one second, I need to get from or give to this person some key info. The conversation is something like: "Ok the meeting is now scheduled for the big conference room. Great see you later". This means don't move, we will continue our conversation is a few seconds.
I need to take this call, it will just take a second. Ask quickly if they want you to step outside. If they say yes, then do so and close the door. If they don't reopen the door in about 5 minutes, then leave. If the conversation needs to be rescheduled, drop them a note via email.
This is very import call. They may put the person on hold, then ask you to reschedule for another time. Do so graciously.
When they answer a call they are telling you they need to interrupt your conversation for a new conversation. If they don't use phrases such as these, they are telling you to leave their office. I would suggest saying "I see you have a phone call, I will let you go, talk to you later" If your conversation is important, then reschedule it.
Sometimes when you address the issue, by offering to leave, they realize they need to tell you what they expect you to do. They will then utter one of the phrases mentioned above.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
add a comment |Â
up vote
10
down vote
Shouldn't the boss be asking this question as well?
Is it professional for either party to extend their call while the other person just stares at the walls?
If not, what behavioral expectations should be set?
I would frankly and respectfully ask my boss this question and negotiate a mutual agreed and accepted protocol.
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
add a comment |Â
up vote
9
down vote
Resolve the issue with communication and modesty.
Ask your boss for a 10 minute chat.
Raise the issue - but do it in a humble deprecating way, e.g. "I feel silly for asking but when you get phone calls during our quick meetings, I don't know what I should do - wait for you, walk away, hand-signal "back in 10" or whatever. Please could you give me some direction at to what you think would the best thing to do that would also work well with you."
This way you have basically:
1) Made them aware of the issue (they really may not realize it as an issue - which is their failing)
2) Asked for assistance and guidance - your boss is responsible for that
3) Said "I don't know what to do" which is an important statement to make, when true.
4) Communicated that this makes you feel awkward and uncertain which is not a good feeling to have.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
It is rude of your boss to pick up the phone without notifying you what's up.
If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't "Excuse me, i'm in a meeting, i'll have to call you back." i would get up and leave.
If he had issues with that i'd tell him that he dismissed me and ended the meeting by taking the call.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
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5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
43
down vote
accepted
It'll depend heavily on your boss and his personality. Most of the time, when I've encountered a situation such as this, my boss has, after a few minutes, waved me off, at which point I go back to my desk and either shoot him an email or just come by later, to see when it would be a good time to finish our talk.
If that doesn't happen, and it becomes too awkward, I'd suggest standing up and moving towards the door, pointing at your watch and holding up 3 to 5 fingers, implying that you'll come back in 5 minutes. Go grab yourself a cup of water, some coffee, or check your email, and then return. If they're still not off the phone, well, keep waiting I guess.
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
add a comment |Â
up vote
43
down vote
accepted
It'll depend heavily on your boss and his personality. Most of the time, when I've encountered a situation such as this, my boss has, after a few minutes, waved me off, at which point I go back to my desk and either shoot him an email or just come by later, to see when it would be a good time to finish our talk.
If that doesn't happen, and it becomes too awkward, I'd suggest standing up and moving towards the door, pointing at your watch and holding up 3 to 5 fingers, implying that you'll come back in 5 minutes. Go grab yourself a cup of water, some coffee, or check your email, and then return. If they're still not off the phone, well, keep waiting I guess.
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
add a comment |Â
up vote
43
down vote
accepted
up vote
43
down vote
accepted
It'll depend heavily on your boss and his personality. Most of the time, when I've encountered a situation such as this, my boss has, after a few minutes, waved me off, at which point I go back to my desk and either shoot him an email or just come by later, to see when it would be a good time to finish our talk.
If that doesn't happen, and it becomes too awkward, I'd suggest standing up and moving towards the door, pointing at your watch and holding up 3 to 5 fingers, implying that you'll come back in 5 minutes. Go grab yourself a cup of water, some coffee, or check your email, and then return. If they're still not off the phone, well, keep waiting I guess.
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
It'll depend heavily on your boss and his personality. Most of the time, when I've encountered a situation such as this, my boss has, after a few minutes, waved me off, at which point I go back to my desk and either shoot him an email or just come by later, to see when it would be a good time to finish our talk.
If that doesn't happen, and it becomes too awkward, I'd suggest standing up and moving towards the door, pointing at your watch and holding up 3 to 5 fingers, implying that you'll come back in 5 minutes. Go grab yourself a cup of water, some coffee, or check your email, and then return. If they're still not off the phone, well, keep waiting I guess.
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
edited Jul 24 '12 at 2:48
jmort253♦
10.4k54376
10.4k54376
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
answered Jul 23 '12 at 4:21
acolyte
3,0531632
3,0531632
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
add a comment |Â
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
2
2
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
The hand gesture is nice. I haven't thought about it.
– lamwaiman1988
Jul 23 '12 at 4:24
11
11
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
+1 Non-verbal language: The most important "office with busy people" type of skill you'll ever have.
– Spoike
Jul 23 '12 at 10:15
4
4
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@pawelbrodzinski and I use pretty much the same techniques, except that if the call is personal or involves some HR type issue which isn't my business I just leave immediately.
– Jim In Texas
Jul 23 '12 at 20:35
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
@JimInTexas excellent point. certain topics are protected in such a way that you are legally not allowed to be privy to the information. while that SHOULD fall on the boss's head, you should still try to remove yourself from the situation.
– acolyte
Jul 25 '12 at 13:09
add a comment |Â
up vote
19
down vote
In a perfect world your boss would let you know verbally what to do as soon as the phone rang. Most offices have caller ID, so they have a good idea of who is calling before they answer the phone.
Normally I would expect one of several actions from the person whose office I am in:
I can ignore this call for a few minutes, I will call them back later. This means your conversation will continue.
Wait one second, I need to get from or give to this person some key info. The conversation is something like: "Ok the meeting is now scheduled for the big conference room. Great see you later". This means don't move, we will continue our conversation is a few seconds.
I need to take this call, it will just take a second. Ask quickly if they want you to step outside. If they say yes, then do so and close the door. If they don't reopen the door in about 5 minutes, then leave. If the conversation needs to be rescheduled, drop them a note via email.
This is very import call. They may put the person on hold, then ask you to reschedule for another time. Do so graciously.
When they answer a call they are telling you they need to interrupt your conversation for a new conversation. If they don't use phrases such as these, they are telling you to leave their office. I would suggest saying "I see you have a phone call, I will let you go, talk to you later" If your conversation is important, then reschedule it.
Sometimes when you address the issue, by offering to leave, they realize they need to tell you what they expect you to do. They will then utter one of the phrases mentioned above.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
add a comment |Â
up vote
19
down vote
In a perfect world your boss would let you know verbally what to do as soon as the phone rang. Most offices have caller ID, so they have a good idea of who is calling before they answer the phone.
Normally I would expect one of several actions from the person whose office I am in:
I can ignore this call for a few minutes, I will call them back later. This means your conversation will continue.
Wait one second, I need to get from or give to this person some key info. The conversation is something like: "Ok the meeting is now scheduled for the big conference room. Great see you later". This means don't move, we will continue our conversation is a few seconds.
I need to take this call, it will just take a second. Ask quickly if they want you to step outside. If they say yes, then do so and close the door. If they don't reopen the door in about 5 minutes, then leave. If the conversation needs to be rescheduled, drop them a note via email.
This is very import call. They may put the person on hold, then ask you to reschedule for another time. Do so graciously.
When they answer a call they are telling you they need to interrupt your conversation for a new conversation. If they don't use phrases such as these, they are telling you to leave their office. I would suggest saying "I see you have a phone call, I will let you go, talk to you later" If your conversation is important, then reschedule it.
Sometimes when you address the issue, by offering to leave, they realize they need to tell you what they expect you to do. They will then utter one of the phrases mentioned above.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
add a comment |Â
up vote
19
down vote
up vote
19
down vote
In a perfect world your boss would let you know verbally what to do as soon as the phone rang. Most offices have caller ID, so they have a good idea of who is calling before they answer the phone.
Normally I would expect one of several actions from the person whose office I am in:
I can ignore this call for a few minutes, I will call them back later. This means your conversation will continue.
Wait one second, I need to get from or give to this person some key info. The conversation is something like: "Ok the meeting is now scheduled for the big conference room. Great see you later". This means don't move, we will continue our conversation is a few seconds.
I need to take this call, it will just take a second. Ask quickly if they want you to step outside. If they say yes, then do so and close the door. If they don't reopen the door in about 5 minutes, then leave. If the conversation needs to be rescheduled, drop them a note via email.
This is very import call. They may put the person on hold, then ask you to reschedule for another time. Do so graciously.
When they answer a call they are telling you they need to interrupt your conversation for a new conversation. If they don't use phrases such as these, they are telling you to leave their office. I would suggest saying "I see you have a phone call, I will let you go, talk to you later" If your conversation is important, then reschedule it.
Sometimes when you address the issue, by offering to leave, they realize they need to tell you what they expect you to do. They will then utter one of the phrases mentioned above.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
In a perfect world your boss would let you know verbally what to do as soon as the phone rang. Most offices have caller ID, so they have a good idea of who is calling before they answer the phone.
Normally I would expect one of several actions from the person whose office I am in:
I can ignore this call for a few minutes, I will call them back later. This means your conversation will continue.
Wait one second, I need to get from or give to this person some key info. The conversation is something like: "Ok the meeting is now scheduled for the big conference room. Great see you later". This means don't move, we will continue our conversation is a few seconds.
I need to take this call, it will just take a second. Ask quickly if they want you to step outside. If they say yes, then do so and close the door. If they don't reopen the door in about 5 minutes, then leave. If the conversation needs to be rescheduled, drop them a note via email.
This is very import call. They may put the person on hold, then ask you to reschedule for another time. Do so graciously.
When they answer a call they are telling you they need to interrupt your conversation for a new conversation. If they don't use phrases such as these, they are telling you to leave their office. I would suggest saying "I see you have a phone call, I will let you go, talk to you later" If your conversation is important, then reschedule it.
Sometimes when you address the issue, by offering to leave, they realize they need to tell you what they expect you to do. They will then utter one of the phrases mentioned above.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
edited Jul 24 '12 at 11:15
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:37
mhoran_psprep
40.3k463144
40.3k463144
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
add a comment |Â
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
1
1
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
pretty good advice, although boss's that don't already recognize this may be resistant to change and may even resent you (unfairly) for it.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 23 '12 at 22:18
1
1
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
Most of the points here are what your boss "should do" and I agree with the points. However the actual question details are more about what should the OP do at that point.
– Michael Durrant
Jul 31 '14 at 17:59
add a comment |Â
up vote
10
down vote
Shouldn't the boss be asking this question as well?
Is it professional for either party to extend their call while the other person just stares at the walls?
If not, what behavioral expectations should be set?
I would frankly and respectfully ask my boss this question and negotiate a mutual agreed and accepted protocol.
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
add a comment |Â
up vote
10
down vote
Shouldn't the boss be asking this question as well?
Is it professional for either party to extend their call while the other person just stares at the walls?
If not, what behavioral expectations should be set?
I would frankly and respectfully ask my boss this question and negotiate a mutual agreed and accepted protocol.
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
add a comment |Â
up vote
10
down vote
up vote
10
down vote
Shouldn't the boss be asking this question as well?
Is it professional for either party to extend their call while the other person just stares at the walls?
If not, what behavioral expectations should be set?
I would frankly and respectfully ask my boss this question and negotiate a mutual agreed and accepted protocol.
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
Shouldn't the boss be asking this question as well?
Is it professional for either party to extend their call while the other person just stares at the walls?
If not, what behavioral expectations should be set?
I would frankly and respectfully ask my boss this question and negotiate a mutual agreed and accepted protocol.
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
edited Jul 23 '12 at 12:06
nurxyz
481512
481512
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
answered Jul 23 '12 at 10:00
the_reluctant_tester
85548
85548
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
9
down vote
Resolve the issue with communication and modesty.
Ask your boss for a 10 minute chat.
Raise the issue - but do it in a humble deprecating way, e.g. "I feel silly for asking but when you get phone calls during our quick meetings, I don't know what I should do - wait for you, walk away, hand-signal "back in 10" or whatever. Please could you give me some direction at to what you think would the best thing to do that would also work well with you."
This way you have basically:
1) Made them aware of the issue (they really may not realize it as an issue - which is their failing)
2) Asked for assistance and guidance - your boss is responsible for that
3) Said "I don't know what to do" which is an important statement to make, when true.
4) Communicated that this makes you feel awkward and uncertain which is not a good feeling to have.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
add a comment |Â
up vote
9
down vote
Resolve the issue with communication and modesty.
Ask your boss for a 10 minute chat.
Raise the issue - but do it in a humble deprecating way, e.g. "I feel silly for asking but when you get phone calls during our quick meetings, I don't know what I should do - wait for you, walk away, hand-signal "back in 10" or whatever. Please could you give me some direction at to what you think would the best thing to do that would also work well with you."
This way you have basically:
1) Made them aware of the issue (they really may not realize it as an issue - which is their failing)
2) Asked for assistance and guidance - your boss is responsible for that
3) Said "I don't know what to do" which is an important statement to make, when true.
4) Communicated that this makes you feel awkward and uncertain which is not a good feeling to have.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
add a comment |Â
up vote
9
down vote
up vote
9
down vote
Resolve the issue with communication and modesty.
Ask your boss for a 10 minute chat.
Raise the issue - but do it in a humble deprecating way, e.g. "I feel silly for asking but when you get phone calls during our quick meetings, I don't know what I should do - wait for you, walk away, hand-signal "back in 10" or whatever. Please could you give me some direction at to what you think would the best thing to do that would also work well with you."
This way you have basically:
1) Made them aware of the issue (they really may not realize it as an issue - which is their failing)
2) Asked for assistance and guidance - your boss is responsible for that
3) Said "I don't know what to do" which is an important statement to make, when true.
4) Communicated that this makes you feel awkward and uncertain which is not a good feeling to have.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
Resolve the issue with communication and modesty.
Ask your boss for a 10 minute chat.
Raise the issue - but do it in a humble deprecating way, e.g. "I feel silly for asking but when you get phone calls during our quick meetings, I don't know what I should do - wait for you, walk away, hand-signal "back in 10" or whatever. Please could you give me some direction at to what you think would the best thing to do that would also work well with you."
This way you have basically:
1) Made them aware of the issue (they really may not realize it as an issue - which is their failing)
2) Asked for assistance and guidance - your boss is responsible for that
3) Said "I don't know what to do" which is an important statement to make, when true.
4) Communicated that this makes you feel awkward and uncertain which is not a good feeling to have.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
answered Jul 23 '12 at 14:43
Michael Durrant
9,68122856
9,68122856
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
It is rude of your boss to pick up the phone without notifying you what's up.
If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't "Excuse me, i'm in a meeting, i'll have to call you back." i would get up and leave.
If he had issues with that i'd tell him that he dismissed me and ended the meeting by taking the call.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
1
down vote
It is rude of your boss to pick up the phone without notifying you what's up.
If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't "Excuse me, i'm in a meeting, i'll have to call you back." i would get up and leave.
If he had issues with that i'd tell him that he dismissed me and ended the meeting by taking the call.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
1
down vote
up vote
1
down vote
It is rude of your boss to pick up the phone without notifying you what's up.
If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't "Excuse me, i'm in a meeting, i'll have to call you back." i would get up and leave.
If he had issues with that i'd tell him that he dismissed me and ended the meeting by taking the call.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
It is rude of your boss to pick up the phone without notifying you what's up.
If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't "Excuse me, i'm in a meeting, i'll have to call you back." i would get up and leave.
If he had issues with that i'd tell him that he dismissed me and ended the meeting by taking the call.
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
edited Jul 23 '12 at 22:32
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
answered Jul 23 '12 at 13:37
Christoffer Hammarström
1346
1346
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
 |Â
show 2 more comments
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
1
1
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
@acolyte - he specified "without notifying you what's up." I've had a boss keep me waiting 30 minutes for personal conversations. Yes, it was rude. And it severely undermined my respect for that boss. "This call is important" is an acceptable message. "I don't value your time" isn't.
– Nathan Long
Jul 23 '12 at 19:31
1
1
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
@NathanLong "If the first words out of my boss' mouth to the person on the phone weren't ...". Yes, he specified "without notifying you what's up" but then proceeded to say that if the boss did not immediately dismiss the call, he'd get up and walk out. thus, my original statement is still valid.
– acolyte
Jul 23 '12 at 19:44
3
3
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
@acolyte: Actually, i'm the most important person to me. And i was hired as a highly skilled specialist, not as a manservant. I have better stuff to do than wait around for someone that is so rude that he takes a call without first terminating our meeting, when i had already taken time out of my schedule for him. If he wants to talk to me he can come to my desk.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 23 '12 at 22:27
1
1
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
Taking a phone call is not rude in a business setting because you're there to serve clients and not stroke your ego. Your boss gets to determine what's more important; it's one of the perks of the job.
– user8365
Jul 25 '12 at 0:55
1
1
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
@JeffO: Taking a call without either terminating the meeting or asking you to wait for just a minute, is rude. I don't know what kind of asshole bosses you all have, because none of mine would be that rude in the first place. And if one of them would, i would simply consider the meeting terminated and get up and leave. If my boss doesn't think it's important to not be rude to his coworkers, i don't see why i should encourage his behaviour.
– Christoffer Hammarström
Jul 25 '12 at 16:14
 |Â
show 2 more comments
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17
I sit there and stare at them. I am getting paid a lot to be there so if he doesn't want me there it would be made clear.
– Rig
Jul 23 '12 at 15:04
4
Note that the answer to this question most likely varies from culture to culture.
– Thorbjørn Ravn Andersen
May 16 '13 at 0:31
5
This question reminds me of younger days, when waiting in a pizzeria. We found out that if we called the shop instead of waiting in the normal queue we got answered immediately. Maybe if your boss gives so much priority to calls you could call him instead.
– Mr Me
Oct 8 '14 at 10:32