How can you build a professional relationship with your boss?

1 Understand their goals and expectations

One of the first steps to build a professional relationship with your boss is to understand their goals and expectations for you and your team. This will help you align your work with their vision and priorities, and show them that you are committed and proactive. You can do this by asking them questions, listening actively, and clarifying any doubts or assumptions. You can also use tools such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) criteria to set and track your objectives and outcomes.

2 Communicate effectively and regularly

Another key aspect of building a professional relationship with your boss is to communicate effectively and regularly with them. This means keeping them informed of your progress, challenges, and achievements, and seeking their input and feedback when needed. You can use different channels and methods of communication, such as email, phone, video call, or face-to-face meeting, depending on the situation and your boss's preferences. You can also use techniques such as active listening, paraphrasing, summarizing, and asking open-ended questions to enhance your communication skills and avoid misunderstandings.

5 Manage conflicts and disagreements

A fifth strategy to build a professional relationship with your boss is to manage conflicts and disagreements in a professional and respectful way. This means addressing any issues or concerns that arise in your work relationship, and avoiding personal attacks, criticism, or blame. You can do this by using assertive communication, focusing on the facts and the solutions, and seeking a win-win outcome. You can also manage conflicts and disagreements by apologizing when you make a mistake, accepting responsibility for your actions, and forgiving your boss when they make a mistake.

6 Show initiative and enthusiasm

A sixth tip to build a professional relationship with your boss is to show initiative and enthusiasm in your work. This means taking on challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities that demonstrate your skills, abilities, and potential, and going beyond your assigned tasks and expectations. You can do this by proposing new ideas, projects, or improvements, volunteering for extra work or roles, and taking charge of your own learning and development. You can also show initiative and enthusiasm by being positive, optimistic, and flexible, and embracing change and feedback.

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?