Spotting your boss outside of the workplace can be both pleasurable and stressful. How should you approach your superior and what should you say to them? Here are a few tips.
Tip #1: Leave work talk out of it
This is not the time to complain about the job, or go into great detail about what you think needs to be done differently or better. Don't take it upon yourself to lay into them about whatever is going on at the office.
Tip #2: Don't overstay your welcome
It's alright for you to acknowledge them when you see them. It is important, however, to be brief and polite. Simply say, "Hello," share some niceties and keep it moving. Remember that your boss is your boss and it may be a bit awkward to see them outside of work. Even if you are best friends at work, you're not necessarily best friends when you are out and about. Also, remember not to invade your boss' space. Just because you know him, it doesn't mean that you should join him during his time of dining out at a restaurant or walk alongside him as he shops. Also, pay attention to body language. Certain gestures will tell you if they are open and accepting of your approach or of you are overstaying your welcome.
Tip #3: Don't take back what you see to the office
If you saw the boss out with her family or friend, just keep it to yourself. Refrain from making such sighting office news the next day. You never know if what you saw was something you were supposed to see, and you certainly don't want to be the one to bring back any information that probably should not be shared. Remember that you saw them at a private time in their life and, as such, it's polite to help them maintain such privacy.
Tip #4: Don't talk about business
Refrain from inquiring about things that should require a scheduled meeting at work. Such discussions include an increase in pay and advice about a project.