My new manager is having a tough time of it, what with key staff being transferred or laid off (and taking their knowledge of procedures, policies, and personnel with them).

It would be a trying experience, even for an experienced manager, as we attempt to readjust responsibilities and fill in the gaps--but he has very little idea how to prioritize or respond and lacks adequate brainpower to make it up as he goes along.

I've been doing my best to keep him from major missteps, as I see the possibilities, but I have a whole raft of new responsibilities myself and

he doesn't ask questions. He doesn't know what he needs to know, so he doesn't know that he doesn't know it. Being newly promoted, he's on probation for a year, Talk about the hot seat!

I feel a great deal of compassion for him. Past differences of opinion aside, he's in a difficult situation and I'll do my best to help him where I can. I'm encouraging all the (remaining) staff to support him and keep him informed.

So far he seems receptive to information and assistance.