How can you get your boss to let you try a different way of doing things?

With my most recent boss, I’ve had to fight to ensure I get enough face time with him, due to some restructuring in our department. As with all of my bosses, I ensure I get on their calendar every quarter for my counseling session. I make sure I have a copy of his OER Support Form, as well as my Senior Rater’s Support Form. I look at the OER or Support Form from the person who previously held my job (which becomes mine in subsequent counselings), and I also look at the strategic objectives (mission and vision) for the unit I’m in. Once I have all of those, I ask my rater what his expectations are for me. Where is there flex? What are the measurable objectives that I must improve, or meet, versus the initiatives where I may be able to innovate a little to meet my goals in that position? Typically, our boss will have his/her objectives that we must meet. The “no-fail” type stuff. I look for additional projects and ways to improve in my position and I see those as the opportunities to do things a little differently. With constant communication with my boss, I can ensure he knows what I’m working on and I’m open with him at the beginning that I want to do things my way. He is supportive (most of the time) but it also there to give me an azimuth check when I need it. Being transparent about the things you want to do allows for your boss to be part of the process. I’ve found that they tend to be supportive of the initiative. Be clear and communicate. Often, our boss is trying to learn and develop our relationship just as much as we are.