Kathryn RandolphBosses don’t just come in different shapes and sizes; they come with different personalities too. In each job, you’re going to encounter a variety of bosses, from the boss that wants to be your best bud to the boss that you just can’t seem to satisfy.
Being able to handle these different personalities and getting along with your boss could make all of the difference in your career. So how do you adapt?
Spend some time getting to know your boss. This isn’t your chance to meet up with your boss after hours to ask his or her interests. Getting along with your boss is about taking time at work to quietly evaluate what your boss is looking for in an employee.
How does your boss respond to work conflict? Does he or she encourage innovative ideas or do they prefer tradition? How does your boss treat employees that speak up and express their opinion?
Taking time to observe your boss, and how he or she responds to the other personalities in your office will give you the opportunity to assess how you need to work, act and treat your boss in order to have a great working relationship.
Ask your boss about your work performance. When was the last time you asked your boss what they thought about your work performance and ethic? Having candid conversations about areas in which you need to improve can go a long way in impressing your boss.
What’s more important though is acting on your boss’ suggestions. Your boss is in the position he or she is in because they know what they’re doing, and it’s their job to provide constructive criticism to make you a better employee. So don’t take their advice with a grain of salt. And don’t get offended when they tell you it might be best to change how you’ve been doing your job.
Act on it. It shows that you’re an employee who wants to be the best at your job, and that will help you make great strides toward getting along with your boss.
Know professional boundaries. We’ve all had that boss that wants to be best friends with his or her employees. And those bosses are nice, fun and most of the time, easy to work for.
However, there will inevitably come a time when your boss can’t be your friend. He or she has to be what they’re supposed to be — your boss. Respecting that relationship will prevent you and your team from getting caught up in work conflict. Decisions that your boss might make won’t be seen as personal; instead, you’ll understand that all is being done for the good of your team and the company.
With these tips in mind, you can look forward to a great working relationship with your boss, one that is beneficial to both you and your career.
How have you cultivated a relationship with your boss? Share in the comments!
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flickr by Victor1558
Kristin Anderson