What are the best ways to build a strong professional relationship with your manager?

1 Communicate effectively

Communication is key to any relationship, especially in a technical field like database development. You need to communicate clearly, regularly, and respectfully with your manager. This means updating them on your progress, asking for feedback, sharing your ideas, and addressing any issues or challenges. You also need to listen to their expectations, instructions, and suggestions, and show that you understand and appreciate them. Use the appropriate channels and tools for communication, such as email, phone, chat, or video calls, and follow the etiquette and norms of your workplace.

2 Deliver quality work

One of the best ways to build a strong professional relationship with your manager is to deliver quality work that meets or exceeds their standards and deadlines. This shows that you are reliable, competent, and committed to your role and the organization. To deliver quality work, you need to understand the requirements, specifications, and objectives of each project or task, and use the best practices and tools for database development. You also need to test, debug, and document your work, and seek feedback and improvement opportunities.

3 Show initiative and creativity

Another way to build a strong professional relationship with your manager is to show initiative and creativity in your work. This means taking on new challenges, learning new skills, and proposing new solutions or innovations that can benefit the organization or the clients. You can also show initiative and creativity by volunteering for extra responsibilities, collaborating with other teams, and participating in training or mentoring programs. By showing initiative and creativity, you demonstrate that you are proactive, resourceful, and passionate about your work.

4 Respect and support your manager

Respect and support are essential elements of a strong professional relationship with your manager. You need to respect their authority, expertise, and decisions, and avoid any conflicts or disagreements that can harm the relationship. You also need to support their goals, vision, and strategies, and align your work with them. You can also show respect and support by acknowledging their achievements, giving constructive feedback, and expressing gratitude for their guidance and recognition.

5 Be yourself and have fun

Finally, you can build a strong professional relationship with your manager by being yourself and having fun. You don't have to be formal or serious all the time. You can show your personality, interests, and values, and find common ground with your manager. You can also have fun by celebrating successes, sharing jokes, or engaging in social activities with your manager and your colleagues. By being yourself and having fun, you can create a rapport, trust, and friendship with your manager that can enhance your professional relationship.

6 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?