8 Simple Ways To Improve Your Relationship With Your Boss

Source: Us News

Having the boss’s support is important to your job as well as your career so it’s worth it to improve how you both relate.

Are you trying so hard to improve your relationship with your boss? If you’re looking for ways to create a stronger relationship, these simple strategies will help

1. Go the extra mile.
Remember that your job description outlines the basic tasks and duties required to maintain employment. But doing the bare minimum is no way to impress your boss. Make it a habit to go over and beyond from time to time.

Exceeding expectations is always a pleasant surprise, whether you’re delivering a project ahead of schedule or volunteering to take on new responsibilities.

2. Anticipate needs.
Don’t wait to be told what to do. Engage your brain and be proactive. Look for predictable patterns in the workplace and take action early.

Knowing you’re on top of things helps make life easier and less stressful for your boss.

3. Make improvements.
The status quo doesn’t always represent the best, most effective way of doing business. Put on your critical thinking cap and see if there are small improvements you can make that will have a big impact on your team or the organization as a whole.

4. Stay positive.
A positive, optimistic person can be like a ray of sunshine in a high-pressure environment. You don’t have to go overboard here; even just a simple smile can help ease the tension. Soon, people will associate you with feeling good—and that’s helpful for any relationship.

5. Bring solutions.
Problems are unavoidable in most work environments and, yes, your boss is there to help you sort them out. But don’t put all the work on his shoulders. When you encounter a challenge, take ownership of the situation and brainstorm solutions on your own before engaging your boss.

If and when you do require his assistance, outline the options you’ve considered and be specific about what help you need from him.

6. Get a little personal.
The workplace doesn’t have to be 100 percent professional 100 percent of the time. A little appropriate personal interaction reminds everyone that we’re not just robots; we all have lives outside of work too.

You and your boss probably have more in common than you even realize. Perhaps you share a favorite pastime or sports team.

Connecting on this kind of personal level strengthens the relationship and creates a deeper sense of authenticity.

7. Protect his time.
Your boss is probably a pretty busy person. Don’t waste his time and help prevent others from doing so as well. If you have a question, search for the answers on your own first. If you have the authority to make a decision, use your best judgment and make it.

8. Don’t make him mediate.
No boss likes to play mediator between his employees. If you’re having an issue with a co-worker, do your best to handle it on your own.

Don’t get your boss involved if you can help it. Little co-worker disputes can make all parties appear childish and petty, and babysitting is not a good use of your boss’s time.

When you take the time to develop a strong relationship with your boss, your boss will see you as a prized asset to his team, and you’ll enjoy all the rewards that go along with it.