The Boss Connection: Success Strategies for a Stronger Relationship

There's no shortage of training and coaching programs showing business leaders how to develop more effective strategies to build and oversee high-performing teams. But when was the last time you saw such a program covering how to forge closer and more productive relationships with bosses?

All employees have a boss in some guise, no matter how senior they may be, so it pays to know how to build a meaningful relationship with them. And yet there is rarely, if ever, any attention paid to this vital skill set.

No matter who you are and what position you hold, learning how to improve your employee-manager relationship will deliver all kinds of benefits.

So, given the lack of resources dedicated to this subject, here are some quickfire tips for taking charge and building a better relationship with your boss.

Managing Up: Tips for Building a Successful Partnership with Your Boss

Cultivate a Meaningful Relationship

One of the reasons so many employee-manager relationships are strained is that they haven't taken the time to get to know each other. So, take the first step by being trustworthy, professional, optimistic, and respectful in the workplace.

Also, take the time to get to know your manager in more neutral settings, including at company social events or dinners. Don't just talk about work, either. Put in the work to get to know them on a human level.

Learn Your Manager’s Goals, Objectives, and Priorities

A massive step in fostering a more positive and productive relationship involves putting yourself in your manager's shoes. Try and see the bigger picture from their point of view since you might only see a small part of their responsibilities on a day-to-day basis. Collaborate and take the initiative to help and make your boss's job easier. Be solutions focused and showcase your value. All of which help foster a positive and productive relationship.

Once you do that, you can help your boss be more successful and propel them along their particular path rather than constantly looking at what they can do for you.

Master the Art of Communication

The quality of any relationship is always directly correlated to its effectiveness in communication. Listen to understand. Be curious, and ask powerful questions to understand your manager’s perspective, goals, and what is expected of you.

Take the time to assess how your body posture might be interpreted (remember to smile, make eye contact, and nod to indicate you're listening intently). Remember, some research shows 55% of communication is nonverbal. So, work on those nonverbal cues.

Put in the effort to better understand your manager's preferred communication style to become more closely aligned. Communication can be more effective when delivering information in a way that the receiver prefers rather than what you prefer.

Develop a Growth Mindset

While nobody thinks they are perfect, you might be unwittingly setting yourself up for disappointment if you're not constantly looking to improve. Bosses will always appreciate a coachable and agile employee, no matter how high up the ladder.

So, communicate your willingness to learn, admit and own your mistakes, and always seek constructive feedback. Enquire regarding professional development opportunities and/or courses that can help you grow and improve your skill set.

Keep Your Boss Informed at Every Possible Juncture

It's not just about developing effective communication channels – it's also about keeping your boss up to date with what's happening in your world.

Every time your manager is informed of your achievements, the volume of work undertaken, or the complexity of the tasks you've taken on, they're more likely to give you the credit you deserve. You'll also get the resources you need and avoid having necessary work piled on your plate (because your boss knows precisely what you're working on).

Furthermore, they'll be more likely to advocate for you, getting you noticed higher up the chain and boosting career progression opportunities.

Show Gratitude

Appreciation is contagious and can strengthen any professional relationship. It could be a quick written thank you or taking them out to lunch in return for a welcome favor they recently extended you.

Pay attention to what your boss would genuinely appreciate as a gesture of gratitude (remember, workplaces bring together diverse cultures, personalities, and values) and adjust your show of gratitude accordingly.

Lastly, make sure your gratitude is genuine. Nobody wants to be on the receiving end of a fake or self-promotional thank-you. Show that you mean it.

Developing a Strong and Meaningful Relationship with Your Boss Will Always Pay Dividends

Developing a more meaningful relationship with your boss delivers many advantages – which is why you should never leave the quality of your relationship to chance. No matter how good or bad your manager might be, it's vital (and your job) to make this relationship work.

Managing up is intentionally working with your boss to achieve the best results for you, your boss, your team, and your organization. The work you put in will always pay dividends, so don’t delay. Make a start and begin reaping the rewards.