How to Keep the Boss Happy
I stumbled upon this article just this morning on how to kep the boss happy. It's worth sharing so enjoy!1. Be true to your word.
Your boss wants to trust you. Really. Therefore, whenever you accept an assignment, follow through religiously, even fanatically. Do what you say you're going to do. Never overcommit, and avoid hedging your bets with vague statements like "I'll try" and "maybe." Instead, make your word carry real weight.
2. No surprises,
ever.
The secret fear of every
boss is that employees are screwing up but are not saying anything about it. So
even if you're afraid some bad news might upset your boss, make sure he's
informed. Note: If your boss consistently "shoots the messenger," you
can ignore this rule–because his behavior shows he doesn't really want to be in
the know.
3. Be prepared on
the details.
Your boss wants to
believe you're competent and on top of things. That's why she sometimes picks
an aspect of your job and begins randomly asking penetrating questions.
Therefore, whenever you're meeting with the boss, have the details ready so you
can answer these queries with grace and aplomb.
4. Take your job
seriously.
Bosses appreciate
individuals who truly care about what they do and willing to take the time to
achieve a deep understanding of their craft. Bosses need people who have unique
expertise. You don't have to be a pro at everything, but you should definitely
have a specific area of knowledge that your boss values.
5. Have your
boss's back.
When you see your boss
about to make a foolish decision, it's your responsibility to attempt to
convince him to make a different one. Make your best case, and express yourself
clearly. However, once the decision is actually made, do your best to make it
work–regardless of whether you think it was the right one.
6. Provide
solutions, not complaints.
Complainers are the bane
of your boss's existence. Nothing is more irritating or more boring than
listening to somebody kvetch about things that they're not willing to change.
So never bring up a problem unless you've got a solution to propose–or are
willing to take the advice the boss gives you.
7. Communicate in
plain language.
Bosses are busy people
and have neither the time nor the inclination to wade through piles of
biz-blab, jargon and weasel words. When dealing with your boss, speak and write
in short sentences, use the fewest words possible to make a point, and make
that point clear and easily understandable.
8. Know your real
job.
Regardless of what it
says on your job description, your real job is to make your boss
successful. There are no exceptions to this rule. None.
And, by the way: Your
boss's real job is to make you more successful. The reversal of these
priorities is the source of almost all organizational problems.