Core Concepts
Proactively managing your relationship with your boss is crucial for career success, as their perception of your performance often matters more than your actual effectiveness.
Abstract
The article discusses strategies for effectively managing your relationship with your boss to achieve mutual success at work. It acknowledges that a significant portion of one's success is determined by how their boss perceives their performance, rather than their actual effectiveness.
The key insights are:
It's important to pay attention to what your boss values and align your work accordingly, even if it differs from your own preferences. This may involve adjusting your communication style, work methods, or priorities to match their expectations.
Regularly check in with your boss to ensure you're on the same page about goals, priorities, and performance. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures you're both working towards the same objectives.
Proactively take the initiative to manage the relationship, as bosses often have many competing demands on their time and attention.
Avoid trying to manipulate or mislead your boss, but focus on building a genuine, collaborative partnership.
By implementing these strategies, employees can increase their chances of being perceived as successful by their boss, even if their actual work output remains the same.
Stats
"Sadly, a lot of your success at work isn't down to how effective you actually are. It's down to how effective your boss thinks you are."
"And as most bosses have cups that runneth over with more things than you can shake a banana at, the onus is on you to take the initiative."
Quotes
"I'd never advocate trying to manipulate or mislead your boss. But there's value in being mindful of how you nurture your relationship, get on the same page, and achieve mutually successful work."