Last week I started a series of blog posts on how to build a stronger relationship with your boss by talking about the importance of keeping your boss informed.
Continuing with that series, here’s a second idea: learn more about your boss’ style. Is he a big picture or a detail person? Does she prefer to work with in-depth background information or summarized recommendations? Does he have a tendency to micro-manage or is he comfortable with a more hands-off approach? When you know more about your boss’ style, you can flex your style to become more useful and reliable to him or her. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about your boss’ working style. Listening and acting on the answers is just good sense — it will set you well on the path to repeated success.
Remember, success in leadership comes not only from being a great superior, but also from being an exceptional subordinate. You are a role model to your employees, so how you behave with your direct manager sets an example for how you expect your staff to work with you.
So what do you have to add to the list? What actions do you take to build a stronger relationship with your boss? Let’s get this conversation going, please add your thoughts to the Comments link below.