A: I just started my new job two weeks ago and I am a director reporting to another director, not to the VP as I was promised. What can I do?
B: Ugh! Being excited about a new position can be similar to starting a romantic relationship. We get caught up in the process and don’t ask the tough questions because we want the prospective employer to like us; we are wrapped in the belief that everything will work out and that we will be happy. It seems that you didn’t nail down your reporting relationship and left your reporting role a bit fuzzy. You do not have it written into your offer, right? Don’t beat yourself up. You can’t go backward in time, you can only go forward. So, ask the following:
- Who is your hiring sponsor or advocate? Note: Your answer should not be “human resources.”
- What is your relationship with the vice president you were “supposed” to report to? What can you do to cultivate that relationship?
- What is the skill set of the director to whom you report? What can you learn to accelerate your transition to the new firm?
- Is the director up for promotion and needs you as a “direct report” to get promoted? If yes, what is the timeframe? How can you support/contribute to his or her success and in the process be successful yourself?
- What is your plan and timeline to report to a VP?
Bottom line: Stay focused on the present situation. Keep calm and carry on! You accepted 
the role and the reporting relationship, so excel in everything you do and develop a wide circle of senior level supporters who know you and appreciate your work.