Q: When my boss gives me a project, he never shares all the information that resides in his head. Because of this, I often fail to achieve his vision of the final result. Then I have to revisit tasks that have been completed.

He does this with other employees as well. For example, last week he asked several people to prepare PowerPoint presentations for a meeting. After all the slides were completed, he suddenly changed the format, so they all had to be redone.

If I ask for information in advance, it's like pulling teeth to get him to give me the specifics in an orderly manner. I've started listing my questions with bullet points in an e-mail, so he can type answers under the questions.

"Mr. Visionary" says he wants me to think outside the box, but I believe that he really expects me to read his mind. Can you give me some insight about how to work with

this person?

A: You and your boss illustrate a classic difference in thinking styles. Creative vision-

aries focus on the big picture and overlook the details. They get excited about new ideas and love making changes. Sound familiar?

Organized implementers, on the other hand, like to focus on specifics and outline action steps. They plan ahead and despise last-minute changes. You seem to fall into this category.

Your manager's frustrating traits simply reflect the way his brain works. He doesn't impart details because he hasn't thought of them yet. He can't give facts "in an orderly manner," because he's not a structured thinker.

Because Mr. Visionary is not likely to change, you're smart to focus on adapting. Your strategy of sending bullet-point e-mails is a great example of "managing the boss." To be sure his views haven't shifted, try including some checkpoints in your project schedules.

Visionaries and implementers often make terrific teams, because they view projects from complementary perspectives. But, as you have noticed, they also can drive each other nuts.

Q: I lost my job with a trucking company because I laid a truck on its side. I've been looking for work in the security field, but my pay seems to be an obstacle.

Interviewers say they can't match my previous salary and want to know why I'm applying for a job that pays only $8.50 an hour. What should I say to get through this part of the interview?

A: Interviewers fear that low pay may cause you to leave if a better offer comes along. They also want to hire someone who will enjoy the job. So you need to convince them that you are excited about security work.

Think of all the reasons why you might prefer security to trucking. These could include less time on the road, more predictable hours, a positive feeling of protecting others, or whatever is true for you.

When asked why you want the job for which you're applying, those reasons are your answer. To convey your interest before the interview, consider providing this explanation in a cover letter.

- Marie G. McIntyre is an Atlanta-based workplace coach. Her weekly column is syndicated by Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service. Send questions at www.yourofficecoach.com.