You may have learned the hard way at your last workplace what not to do to stay on management’s good side. You figured things out from warnings to termination. However, this time will be different. Here are practical tips on helping you build and maintain a great reputation with your boss.
1. Show Up on Time: Being on time, whether for starting the day or joining meetings, goes a long way. It shows that you respect others’ time and are serious about your responsibilities.
2. Keep Your Boss in the Loop: Don’t leave your boss guessing about what’s going on with your projects. Even if you’re handling a challenge, it’s better they hear it from you first rather than finding out too late.
3. Stay on Top of Things: Juggling work can be a lot, but keeping organized and setting priorities can help you avoid last-minute stress—and avoid surprising your boss with delays.
4. Play by the Rules: Every company has its policies and guidelines, and sticking to them keeps things running smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re respectful of the company culture.
5. Be Mindful of Confidentiality: If you’re privy to sensitive information about coworkers, clients, or the company, keep it private. Gossip and oversharing can quickly create tension.
6. Aim to Meet Expectations: Know what your boss wants from you, and focus on hitting those targets. Check in with them regularly to stay on track and show you’re putting in the effort.
7. Avoid Office Gossip: Staying out of office drama not only keeps you focused but also helps you maintain a professional reputation. It’s better to focus on the work than on who’s saying what.
8. Take Feedback Gracefully: No one loves getting critiqued, but being open to it shows you’re serious about growing. It’s okay to feel uncomfortable but aim to use feedback to get even better.
9. Own Your Mistakes: We all make mistakes, and the best way to handle them is to own up, apologize if needed, and let your boss know how you’ll fix it. It shows accountability and maturity.
10. Stay Professional: Respect goes both ways. Even if there’s a disagreement, stay calm and constructive. How you handle it says a lot about you.
11. Look for Solutions, Not Just Problems: If you see a potential issue coming up, take initiative and suggest ways to address it. It shows you’re proactive and care about doing a good job.
12. Manage Your Workload Honestly: If you’re getting overwhelmed, be upfront with your boss. They’d likely prefer you ask for help than see you struggling silently or delivering half-done work.
13. Keep Growing: Investing in new skills helps you do your job better and shows your boss that you’re committed to growing with the company.
14. Bring a Positive Attitude: Work can be stressful, but showing up with a positive outlook can make a big difference. It helps build good vibes in the team and makes you someone people want to work with.
15. Know Your Boundaries: Taking on too much or stepping into others’ responsibilities can step on toes. Respect the roles around you, and only take on extra if you’re sure it’s welcome.
These small but thoughtful efforts show you’re reliable, open to feedback, and invested in being a positive part of the team. Plus, they help build a great relationship with your boss over time!
Nicholl McGuire is the blog owner and author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and other reference guides and nonfiction books.
