What are the best practices for building a strong relationship with your boss?

2 Communicate regularly and effectively

Another key factor for building a strong relationship with your boss is to communicate regularly and effectively. You can do this by updating them on your progress, achievements, and challenges. You can also ask them for guidance, support, or feedback when needed. You should also be respectful, honest, and professional in your communication. Avoid gossip, complaints, or criticism that can damage your trust and credibility. Instead, focus on solutions, suggestions, or appreciation that can enhance your collaboration and rapport.

3 Show initiative and proactivity

One of the ways to impress your boss and build a strong relationship with them is to show initiative and proactivity in your work. You can do this by taking on new responsibilities, challenges, or projects that can add value to your team or organization. You can also propose new ideas, innovations, or improvements that can solve problems or create opportunities. By showing initiative and proactivity, you can demonstrate your commitment, enthusiasm, and creativity to your boss.

4 Respect their time and boundaries

Another best practice for building a strong relationship with your boss is to respect their time and boundaries. You can do this by being punctual, prepared, and concise in your meetings, emails, or calls. You can also avoid interrupting them when they are busy, distracted, or unavailable. You should also respect their personal and professional space and avoid crossing any lines that can make them uncomfortable or annoyed. By respecting their time and boundaries, you can show your professionalism, courtesy, and maturity to your boss.

5 Seek feedback and act on it

One of the best ways to build a strong relationship with your boss is to seek feedback and act on it. You can do this by asking them for constructive criticism, suggestions, or advice on how to improve your work or skills. You can also thank them for their feedback and show them how you have implemented it or learned from it. By seeking feedback and acting on it, you can show your boss that you are open to learning, growing, and improving.

6 Support their success and growth

Another best practice for building a strong relationship with your boss is to support their success and growth. You can do this by acknowledging their achievements, contributions, or recognition. You can also offer them help, assistance, or resources when they need it. You should also be loyal, supportive, and respectful of their decisions, opinions, or authority. By supporting their success and growth, you can show your boss that you are a valuable and reliable partner.

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?