Of all the valuable skills in the workplace (good public speaker, Excel guru, well-organized, team player), one that gets overlooked is how to make nice with your boss - or as I've stated in the title: "how to kiss up to your boss."
Why is this important? I ask you, why wouldn't it be? Why would you not want to be on your boss's good side? Do not be mistaken, I'm not suggesting tactics that will earn you the derision of your co-workers. Rather I'm suggesting items we might forget in the everyday chaos and frustration of dealing with all the personalities that are present in the workplace.
Here are a couple of suggestions for a better working relationship with your boss.
Say "I don't know how you do it" in a sincere and appreciative tone. Remember, of all the times that you're overwhelmed, your boss is dealing with even more and on a larger scale. Let them know that you recognized that and respect their efforts.
Say "thank you!" You know how good it feels when someone says "thank you" to you - especially for doing your job (i.e. what you're supposed to be doing). Saying "thank you" to your boss will make them feel good, too.
When you challenge or questions your boss, don't do it in public. You don't like to be put on the spot in public, so don't do it for them. My preferred method is to send an email. I title the subject "Opinions by Lutricia" and begin the email by stating that these are just my opinions and I'm sure there are details I'm not aware of, but here you go.... And I conclude my email with "thank you for taking the time to read this - no response is required. I just wanted tot share these thoughts with you" This saves your boss the time of having to draft a polite email telling you that you're out in left field (if your suggestions are way off base).
Show you care! Ask about the recent vacation, how their kids are doing, or about their hobbies. When you express you care, your boss will potentially demonstrate more compassion towards you.
Review your job description and make sure you're doing everything laid out in it. If not, go to your boss and ask for clarification on how to implement further components of your responsibilities. You'll get props for being conscientious and it might save you from being caught off guard in the future about something you should have been doing.
Sound simple? I think so! You can find all these ideas with your local relationship counselor as well! Be nice, be appreciative and don't challenge your boss or loved one in public!
Lutricia is the Director of Sales at Roundtop Mountain Resort but she prefers to be called the "Empress of Fun!" Lutricia says her job is fun - she enjoys talking to a wide variety of people, the products are fun (zip lines, OGO ball, paintball, skiing, etc) and the drive to work is fun (curvy country roads)!
