You're struggling to connect with your boss. How can you make a good impression?

1 Understand your boss

The first step to connecting with your boss is to understand their personality, preferences, and priorities. What are their goals, challenges, and motivations? How do they like to communicate, receive feedback, and delegate tasks? What are their values, strengths, and weaknesses? By observing and asking questions, you can learn how to adapt your style to match your boss's needs and expectations, and avoid potential conflicts or misunderstandings.

2 Show your value

The second step to connecting with your boss is to show your value as an engineer and as a team player. Demonstrate your competence, creativity, and initiative by delivering high-quality work, solving problems, and proposing new ideas. Show your commitment, reliability, and accountability by meeting deadlines, following instructions, and taking responsibility for your actions. Show your collaboration, communication, and contribution by working well with others, sharing information, and supporting your boss's vision.

4 Express appreciation

The fourth step to connecting with your boss is to express appreciation for their support, guidance, and recognition. Everyone likes to feel valued and appreciated, especially your boss, who might have a lot of pressure and responsibility. Show your gratitude by saying thank you, giving compliments, and acknowledging their achievements. Be sincere, specific, and timely in your expressions of appreciation. Don't overdo it or expect anything in return.

5 Build rapport

The fifth step to connecting with your boss is to build rapport with them on a personal level. Rapport is the feeling of trust, respect, and understanding that you have with someone. It can help you establish a positive and productive relationship with your boss. To build rapport, you can find common interests, hobbies, or experiences that you can talk about. You can also show interest in their personal life, such as their family, hobbies, or plans. Be respectful, friendly, and genuine in your conversations.

6 Manage conflicts

The sixth and final step to connecting with your boss is to manage conflicts that might arise. Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship, especially in a work environment where there are different opinions, perspectives, and goals. However, conflicts can also be opportunities for learning, growth, and innovation. To manage conflicts with your boss, you should be respectful, calm, and assertive. You should focus on the problem, not the person, and try to find a win-win solution. You should also apologize, forgive, and move on when necessary.