Fostering a relationship with your boss is essential. After all, this person has a great amount of power over your workplace experience. Teri Hockett, the chief executive of the career site for women, What's for Work?, put it perfectly when she said:
"They [the boss] can make the workplace exciting and something to look forward to each day, or a place that you dread visiting. In short, your health is at stake."
Even if you're not particularly fond of your boss, there are always ways to strengthen your relationship to make the workplace a better, and overall more enjoyable place to work and thrive. Here are some strategies for improving the connection you have with your superior:
Never underestimate the power of a handwritten note
Was there a project at work that your boss really helped you out with? Did your superior recommend you for a new promotion? Whatever the reason, a handwritten note can make a powerful impact. Thank you cards are a professional way of showing your gratitude – something not enough people display to their superiors. Though your note may be short, it's a gesture that won't soon be forgotten.
Put yourself in their shoes
Bosses are often disliked because they have to make unpopular decisions for the good of the company. Before you gossip about them for something they did, put yourself in their shoes. After all, they have a job to do just like you do, but they often get more criticism. Make an effort to be more understanding and keep a positive attitude even through decisions with which you may not completely agree.
Keep the communication constant
It's hard to maintain a strong relationship with your boss if you don't talk to them on a fairly regular basis. Try scheduling monthly meetings with them to discuss any issues that have come up in the workplace, or to talk about solutions or improvements that can be made. Those monthly meetings show that you're making an effort to do the best you can at your job, and it demonstrates that a relationship with your superior is important to you.
Bring solutions to the table
Managers and bosses often ask for feedback, whether it be negative or positive. While constructive criticism is necessary and welcomed in the workplace, it's important to follow up that feedback with a solution. You can't expect your boss to come up with answers to every problem that arises at work. Showing up to meetings with potential solutions demonstrates that you're capable of overcoming obstacles, and you will be more respected by your boss for it.
Represent yourself well
When you're meeting with clients or other members of the industry, make sure you present yourself in a professional manner. After all, if you say or do something inappropriate, this reflects poorly on your boss and their leadership skills. A superior always appreciates an employee who can act professional, kind and courteous in front of others.