10 Tips for the Boss’s A-List
What actions and behaviors differentiate you as a promotable employee?
Margaret Steen, author of “10 Habits Bosses Love”, outlines some of the best ways to get noticed.
- Communicate. And then, communicate some more. It is better to err on the side of too much information given to the boss than not enough. Of course, once you get to know your boss, it is best to ask directly how much, in what mode and what kind of information s/he wants to receive.
- Be a responsive listener. Be present. Be aware of times when you should respond verbally or non-verbally.
- Understand how you fit in and what is expected. Is your boss a big picture person who wants you to handle the details? Or is your boss detail oriented and wants it all spelled out? Learning about this early will save you a lot of grief and send a positive impression to the boss.
- Think one level up. You have heard this many times, but do you practice it? Make an effort to understand the types of issues your boss faces.
- Learn the boss’s pet peeves. If your boss hates to be interrupted before his/her coffee in the morning, don’t go running in with your latest idea. Understanding your boss’s style is an important part of building the relationship.
- Be enthusiastic and engaged in your work. Show initiative in bringing up possibilities for improvements and money saving strategies. Speak in confident, positive ways.
- Try things in a new way. Being grounded is one thing. But getting a reputation for dismissing other’s ideas is another. Be open and listen. You might be surprised how an idea can change and mold its way into fitting into your organization.
- Acquire new knowledge and skills. Experts suggest that employees who get ahead not only keep current but pay attention to new trends.
- Anticipate the boss’s needs. After you work with someone for a while, think about what information will be needed for his/her decision making or information exchange. Think big picture and provide what s/he needs before s/he has to ask you for it.
- Build relationships. Create a good rapport with customers, other departments, and people inside and outside your area. As you know, relationship building helps to get the job done and keeps everyone informed.