Here's how you can earn your boss's trust and confidence in your abilities.

Taking the initiative is a real game-changer in the small business arena. When you're the kind of person who jumps in without needing a nudge, trust me, your boss is going to take notice. Be the proactive soul always seeking ways to improve and prevent problems. It shows you're not just punching the clock; you're really throwing your weight behind the success of the venture. And it's crucial to remember that it's not enough to just toss ideas out there; you've got to roll up your sleeves and be ready to bring those ideas to life. When you pitch a solution, step up to the plate to see it through. That's how you show you're not just talk—you're all about action, and that's what makes all the difference. Good Luck! Prof. Anthony

"Look for the biggest problem you can find because there in lies your greatest opportunity." That advice was given to me by the youngest President in Citibank's history who went on to become the co-CEO of Barclays and one of the most successful financial services executives of the last 50 years. Most people run away from problems. The ones that stand out run toward them because they know that by solving their bosses problems they are getting their attention. Consistently solve problems from quick wins that are small problems that can be done right away, anticipating needs, and tackling the things that are keeping them up at night. Not only are you earning their respect you are also learning what it takes to be the boss.

Always listen and then see how you can assist or deal with the problem. Give you ideas and don't blow your trumpet, let the boss lead the way if he/she likes your ideas

Arrive and be ready to start on time. Punctuality takes stress away first up. When you finish you're work be willing to help others or ask for more work. Be curious how can you help? What do you need to learn to step up into the next role.? A can do attitude will make a difference in the work place.

Earn your boss's trust and confidence by consistently delivering high-quality work that exceeds expectations. Communicate openly and transparently, keeping them informed of progress and any challenges. Take initiative to tackle projects independently and seek opportunities to contribute value to the team. Demonstrate reliability by meeting deadlines and fulfilling commitments. Show willingness to learn and adapt, accepting feedback gracefully and continuously improving your skills. By consistently demonstrating competence, integrity, and dedication, you'll earn your boss's trust and solidify their confidence in your abilities.

Start by setting realistic expectations and delivering consistently. Be transparent with your progress and proactive about addressing issues. Listen actively to feedback and show that you’re implementing it. Keep your boss in the loop with regular updates, and don’t shy away from asking for clarification to avoid misunderstandings. Show initiative by bringing solutions, not just problems, to the table. Remember, trust is built over time through a series of small actions that demonstrate reliability, competence, and integrity.

Effective communication is key to relationship building, and as a small business owner, I'm looking for people who can solve problems and build relationships. The key to these, is effective and clear communication.

The very same rules apply to every situation regardless of work, volunteer or family activities - be consistent, don’t say anything that you are not prepared to do 100%.

Reliability is essential for building trust with your boss. Always strive to deliver on your promises and meet your deadlines. If you commit to completing a task by a certain date, do your utmost to achieve it. Should unexpected issues arise, inform your boss promptly and propose a revised timeline. This approach demonstrates accountability and shows respect for both your boss’s time and the broader business operations. Consistency in your performance establishes a track record of dependability. In a small business setting, being someone your boss can rely on is invaluable—it strengthens your professional relationship and enhances your credibility within the company.

I've always said, the ability, is reliability. Reliability lends to trust and confidence in a person. Availability is good, reliability is better.

Authenticity is doing what you say you are going to do. This is a #1 trust builder in relationships . However doing that thing you said you will do and going beyond expectations will make you memorable in the boss eyes. For example you are asked to organize the clutter in the tools room at a construction company. While organizing the clutter you also check the condition of all tools visually. You find two items that are faulty and pose a safety hazard to workers. After organizing the tool room you write a summary e-mail to the boss confirming you organized and performed a full visual safety audit of the tools, and separated two faulty tools for replacement. And note the procurement team has new tools ordered.

Continuous improvement is paramount in small business. Myself included, we all should be working on ourselves in an effort to build a better "me". The stronger we become, the stronger the team becomes.

Being a supportive colleague is key to gaining your boss's trust in a small business environment where teamwork is critical. Help your colleagues, share your knowledge, and collaborate effectively. This fosters a positive work atmosphere and demonstrates your commitment to the company's success. Actions that contribute to a team-oriented culture, highlighting cooperation and mutual support, will surely catch your boss's attention. From my experience, when you actively enhance the team dynamic, you become a valuable asset to the organization and someone your boss can trust with greater responsibilities. This trust can lead to more opportunities and career growth.

When facing challenges at work, always aim to be the one who offers solutions, not just the one who points out problems. Adopt a constructive attitude and think critically about how to solve issues efficiently. This proactive approach shows your boss that you're not only aware of the business's challenges but are actively working to overcome them. From my experience, consistently offering solutions builds your reputation as a problem-solver and positions you as an indispensable asset to the team. Your boss will see you as someone reliable who can be trusted in any situation, which is invaluable in a small business setting. This trust can lead to more significant responsibilities and career advancement.

In the Navy (80-84), I learned from a superior that we don't have problems, we have situations. And there is a solution for every situation. While I got sick of hearing it, he was correct. Be a problem solver, by becoming a solution provider.

Always go the extra mile - support others and “lift them up” this develops your leadership skills. Do not focus on who gets the credit. Eventually your peers and leadership will recognize you for all the right reasons.

Get an understanding of their vision. Follow reasonable orders. Get their back! Be able to challenge, ask the right questions.