You are about to get a new boss. You worked well with the old one and you are apprehensive about working with a new person, with new expectations, behaviour and personality. Now is the time to start building a new relationship with the manager.

Here are some steps you can take to help with the process.

1. Welcome Package
Prior to the new boss showing up, you may want to create a welcome package. This package can include a phone directory; a layout of the office including the break room, bathrooms, and emergency exit; a list of restaurants for lunch if they are new to the area; a list of names and departments of peers and people they may work with if they're new to the company; a list of where different files are within the office; and voicemail instructions. Think of how they can feel more welcomed with quick and easy information.

2. First Impressions Last
When your new boss is scheduled to arrive, look neat and professional. When you meet the new boss, shake his/her hand firmly and smile. Offer any assistance he/she may need in getting settled in. Make sure you desk looks neat and uncluttered.

3. New Boss, New Style
Remember that this is a new boss with his or her own style of working. Do not compare the new boss to the old. Give the new boss some time to feel comfortable and adjusted in their new job and environment.

4. Talk Time
Set up a sit down time to talk to the new boss. Bring a list of the major projects you work on with them, but wait until the new boss asks about what you have done and what your tasks are. Actively listen to them and gauge their personality. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask what their work style is like, how do they like to communicate information and how in the past have they utilised the work of their assistants? What are their expectations of you? Ask how they would like the following handled:

• Communicating information back and forth
• Email
• Calendars
• Phone calls and voice mail
• Other support tasks they would like you to do and any preferences in work style

Go over your current performance objectives. Establishing early what the expectations are will allow you to start working toward a partnership with your new boss.

5. Accept Changes
Over the few weeks meet your new boss regularly. Let him or her make changes. You may have the urge to say, "That is not how it has been done." If you get the urge, suppress it unless asked.

In no time at all you should pick up on the work style of your new boss. With your expectations and goals clearly understood by both you and your boss you can work now work towards building a rewarding partnership.