Message #59646

[raindance]

Great advice from Jess.

You could go back to your two bosses and ask for clarification, and maybe tactfully put them on the spot so that you can flush out whether "communicating" actually means "gossiping" or "tale telling".  

You might also suggest that you touch base with them briefly a couple of times a day - on the basis that it will keep them updated but will mean that they can devote the necessary time to their very busy jobs.  Reminding them that they are "very busy" and you "don't with to disturb them unnecessarily" will (a) make them feel important  (b) get your point across and (c) hopefully gain you some time.

It may be that this behaviour is just the way your bosses manage things, and you either adapt to it, and change what little you can change, or find another post.  Some managers do micro-manage, and probably should do everything themselves because that is really the only way they would be satisfied.  It is possible to "train"  a micro-manager out of their bad habits, but you will have to invest a lot of time and patience.  

Your managers also have to adapt to you and your demeanour.  With your experience, I don't need to tell you that politeness and excellent work are only part of the equation in building up a working relationship.  A good working relationship takes a lot of time to develop, and you maybe need to give it more time, particularly if your predecessor was in post for a long time.  

I don't think you have much to worry about, Gee, on the basis of what you have said, but let us know if anything else happens.

With best wishes,

Raindance