How to Relate to a Boss

Every employee must be able to relate to her boss at work. The most important thing is relate to your boss in a careful manner, where you do not feel inferior to your boss, nor make yourself look like you are disrespecting your boss’ authority.

Instructions

1. Find out exactly what is expected of you at work. When you know what your duties are, you will know where your liberties lie. For example, know if you are required to do everything yourself or if you can delegate to others for help with your workload.

2. Do what is expected of you. Your boss will be very happy to see that you are doing exactly what is expected of you. Once your boss sees that you are working toward meeting the goals of the company, your boss will be more receptive to what you have to say.

3. Keep your boss informed. Letting your boss know what is going on in the company shows your boss that you are on top of things and you care about the welfare of the company. It will also show your boss that you do not have any hidden agendas. This does not mean to be a tattletale and tell your boss when your co-workers are late or take too many sick days; it simply means to keep the lines of communication open between the two of you.

4. See your boss first, before your boss has to come to you. If you know that your boss wants to discuss a work issue with you or an assignment that is overdue, approach your boss before your boss has the chance.

5. Get information straight from your boss. If you pay attention to gossip and rumors you will not be able to work effectively. Write down all your doubts and any question on a piece of paper so you can address all these issues in one meeting. There is nothing worse than meeting again with your boss to discuss an issue that already has been discussed.

6. Don’t go to your boss with a problem unless you have a possible solution for it. Your boss will have many things to take care of and does not need an additional situation to complicate things further. If you approach your boss with a possible solution for a company problem, things will go down easier and you will look like a pro-active thinker instead of a complainer.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be on time and show up to staff meetings prepared.