In the fall of 2013, I was an Army Colonel in command of an infantry brigade, a large organization nearing 5,000 people. Though I had a ton of authority, I still had a boss.
One of my senior officers approached me to ask if I would promote him to Colonel. It was customary, even courteous, for officers to ask their commander to host these types of ceremonies. But there was a hierarchy, an unwritten rule of what rank could promote what rank. Officers were typically a few ranks above the one being promoted. For instance, a General promotes an officer to Colonel, but a Colonel does not typically promote another to Colonel. I had the authority to promote this individual, and I knew my boss’s schedule was overloaded. I was touched that this officer had asked me, but for this promotion, it was right for me to ask permission.
“You Were Right to Ask”
My boss, a 1-Star General, was more than happy to give me this opportunity, but he stated, “You were right to ask.” By saying this, he was reinforcing this customary, time-honored courtesy. His words stuck with me, and I was glad that my instincts were correct. Sometimes you need to ask.
There’s Not a Rule for Everything
Organizations and leaders don’t have rules for everything. Some have few, if any, policies to guide the decisions of subordinate leaders. In these cases, it is imperative to know when to ask. Be selective. You can even spend some time early in the relationship with your boss describing scenarios to gauge your authority. You also don’t want to pester your boss at every turn (read more on this in my other blog, Free the boss, don’t task the boss).
How to Frame the Ask
Before asking, review precedent, ask others for advice, and listen to your gut. When in doubt—and you think the decision you’re about to make is substantial and far-reaching—ask.
You can frame the question like this:
“Boss, I want to make a decision on [issue], but I wanted to get a sense of my authority before I do.”
Or:
“Boss, this decision is big and has far-reaching effects in our organization. I wanted to give you the courtesy of asking before I made it.”
Lead with Judgment, Not Just Rank
Again, don’t become an “ask permission” parrot. Spend some time getting to know your boss, what authority they’re willing to delegate, and what decisions they prefer to keep at their level. Ask others before you interrupt your boss, but know when to ask.
Make it Personal!
Rob
