It might be a question of style, body language and tone of voice. If you get an opportunity to see how he responds to someone else that he actually connects with or is more engaged with, try to integrate some of their style, tone of voice, body language and style of communication and the way their material is prepared and presented. That might give you a clue to what he likes and what his preferences are. He may not be able to tell you this himself. We all relate to people a little differently and don't always no why.

Remember, it takes time to build a relationship with a new boss. As another poster suggested, if your boss seems distracted, I would ask if there would be a better time to meet with him. [My former boss used to do this a lot; lots of time, he would check his e-mails while I was talking to him! Drove me crazy until I figured out what to do: to ask him if he'd rather have me come back later. That almost always worked; it helped him realize he wasn't really paying attention to me.]

Try not to get discouraged - you seem to be making lot of effort to do a great job, and it can be disheartening to be brushed off. It seems like your new boss's communication style isn't great (too abrupt) but keep at it. As you end a meeting with him, paraphrase back to him what your couse of action will be . Ask if he'd prefer that you provide him with updates via e-mail (some people aren't great one-on-one communicators). And as you get more comfortable with him, ask him for feedback on how things are going. It might open up a dialogue for him to tell you what he needs.

At your next meeting ask your new boss what he expects from you. What does he want you to bring to him and how. Does he want to know everything or just the global idea? Does he prefer email over in-person meetings? Tell him that you are willing to adjust to what and how he wants you to report to him. Even bosses are not always good in communicating what and how they want to get information. So, ask him.

Thank you for weighing in. I will try your suggestions.

When two employees begin working with each other it is always more difficult. Your new manger probably has alot more to do now that he has taken on more duties and staff, so I am sure that your preparedness is of value to him. Maybe he is harder to get to know then other staff but I would keep doing what you are doing and time may warm the situation up a bit. Maybe you could also try asking him if there are other tasks or duties of his you could help with since you are sure he is busier with all the changes.