How can you build a professional relationship with your boss?

1 Understand their goals

One of the first steps to build a professional relationship with your boss is to understand their goals and expectations. What are they trying to achieve for the organization, the team, and themselves? How do they measure success and performance? What are their priorities and challenges? By asking these questions, you can align your work with their vision, show your interest and initiative, and demonstrate your value and contribution.

2 Communicate effectively

Another key aspect of building a professional relationship with your boss is to communicate effectively. This means keeping them updated on your progress, challenges, and achievements, as well as asking for feedback, guidance, and support when needed. It also means being clear, concise, and respectful in your messages, whether they are verbal, written, or digital. In the field of computer networking, you may have to use different tools and platforms to communicate with your boss, such as email, chat, phone, video call, or online meeting. Make sure you use the appropriate medium, tone, and format for each situation, and follow the etiquette and best practices of each tool.

3 Collaborate proactively

A third way to build a professional relationship with your boss is to collaborate proactively. This means being willing to share your ideas, insights, and solutions, as well as listening to and learning from theirs. It also means being flexible, adaptable, and cooperative, especially when working on complex or urgent projects that require teamwork and coordination. In the field of computer networking, you may have to collaborate with your boss on tasks such as designing, installing, configuring, troubleshooting, or maintaining networks, systems, or devices. Make sure you understand your role and responsibilities, follow the instructions and standards, and deliver quality and timely results.

4 Connect personally

A fourth way to build a professional relationship with your boss is to connect personally. This means showing your personality, interests, and values, as well as recognizing and appreciating theirs. It also means being friendly, respectful, and supportive, especially when they are facing difficulties or stress. In the field of computer networking, you may have to connect with your boss in different settings, such as formal meetings, casual chats, or social events. Make sure you balance your professionalism and personalism, respect their boundaries and preferences, and avoid topics or behaviors that may be inappropriate or offensive.

5 Learn from them

A fifth way to build a professional relationship with your boss is to learn from them. This means acknowledging their expertise, experience, and skills, as well as seeking their advice, feedback, and mentorship. It also means being open-minded, curious, and eager to improve your own knowledge, skills, and performance. In the field of computer networking, you may have to learn from your boss about topics such as new technologies, trends, or best practices, as well as how to advance your career, network, or leadership. Make sure you show your gratitude, respect, and enthusiasm, and apply what you learn to your work and development.

6 Respect their authority

A sixth and final way to build a professional relationship with your boss is to respect their authority. This means accepting their decisions, directions, and evaluations, as well as following their rules, policies, and procedures. It also means being honest, accountable, and responsible, especially when you make mistakes, face challenges, or disagree with them. In the field of computer networking, you may have to respect your boss's authority on matters such as budget, resources, deadlines, or quality. Make sure you communicate your concerns, opinions, or suggestions in a constructive and respectful way, and accept the outcomes and consequences in a mature and professional way.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?