Build a Strong Relationship with your Boss and Take Charge of your Career
Managers are interested
in employees who will help them accomplish the many goals set for their teams. Self-starters, initiative takers,
independent, results oriented individuals are often in demand.
If your boss had a hand
in hiring you, then you can be confident
that he/she already thinks well of you.
Performing well can reinforce the message that the decision to bring you
on board was the right decision.
Following are some tips
that will help you build a great relationship with your boss while building your confidence in your ability to “manage up.”
Put yourself in your
boss’ shoes. From their perspective,
what are the stresses, the pressures, the goals, and the demands?
Once you have a clear
sense of this, you are then better able to make decisions, tailor your
communications, and make contributions that will enable others to perceive you
as an MVM—most valuable member of the team!
Also, see your boss as
a person. Your boss is just like you—has worked his/her way up to the position
they now have. Therefore, they have lots
of experience to share with you. If they
are willing, allow them to be your mentor.
Ask for feedback regularly, and get their input on your career
goals.
Be helpful and proactive. Since
you have an understanding of what the demands are on your boss, try your best
to contribute to them. What are some
actual accomplishments you can make to help further the team? Where can you take the initiative to solve a
problem or improve a process that wasn’t even on the radar screen?
Manage your performance review
process. Record your accomplishments, and inquire about other ways you can
contribute to overall team goals.
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| Be Proactive and Manage Your Career |
Be assertive about your
career plan and ask for projects that will stretch your current abilities. Be clear about the support you seek from your
boss, and be equally clear about the deliverables you will produce.
Encourage bonding and
building genuine rapport by engaging in occasional conversations about family,
personal hobbies and other interests.
Share your information, but inquire about his/her interests as well.
Demonstrating a clear
understanding of the strategic focus of the organisation will help others to
perceive you a team player and a potential leader. You will gain the respect of
your managers, and ensure your career is on the fast track.
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