Dear Wu,

Thank you for your question.

I believe the most effective way to get your boss to listen to your ideas is to first do what he asks, and do it very well. If you get work pushed on you because others on your team are not able to handle it, then take that as a complement...your boss knows you can.

Do the work and take some time after you help to work with your team member (she) to improve her ability to get the work done. This will benefit you several ways:
- she will become loyal to you for helping her improve
- you will get less of her work because she is better able to handle it on her own.
- your boss will see you are acting as a team player and making positive improvements that benefit the entire group
- you will be able to lead your team to improve the process because you have established yourself as an expert and team player

The first step is solving the immediate need. If you don't do that, all of your skills will not matter and you will be viewed as a roadblock.

I realize this approach may not seem fair, but give your new boss a chance. Noticing the skill or lack of skill in individuals takes time, so does understanding the flaws in a process. His goal today is to ensure work gets done...you can help him with that.

If your co-worker continues to be rude to you, your best defense is to be kind back and continue to help her succeed. Once you establish yourself as helpful she may stop being rude and grow to appreciate you...and be more open to listening to you. This is leadership.

I hope that helps.

Good luck,

Lisa