Make Your Boss Like You

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This course is designed to get your boss to like you.

Objective: Get on your boss' good side.

I would assume that as an employee you would want your boss to like you and that his (or her) liking you would benefit you in the long run. So how do you make that happen?

1. Do your job and more

The first step toward your boss liking you is you doing a great job with what they have assigned to you and then going beyond it. Make sure "that's not my job" isn't in your vocabulary. Besides, working on new things, perhaps slightly out of your "job description" is as much a learning opportunity for you as it is an opportunity to impress the boss.

2. Stop whining, boasting and brownnosing

Competent bosses realize there’s no correlation between kissing up to a superior and working hard and for the benefit of the company.

3. No stupid questions

When asking questions of your boss, make sure not to ask ones you could have found the answer to yourself. This makes you look lazy and unmotivated. Instead, only ask your boss questions that they are best qualified to answer.

4. Have solutions, not problems

We've all got too many problems and not enough solutions, so you can be sure your boss doesn't want to solve all of your problems. So look for a solution and then propose it to your boss in conjunction with explaining the problem. He'll be impressed and may offer you suggestions for making your solution work.

5. Feedback

Asking your boss for feedback is actually a good thing because it shows you are willing to improve and can take constructive criticism or suggestions. Giving feedback is also a good idea when done in a professional manner.

6. Taking responsibility

Inevitably something will go wrong and it will be your fault. When that happens take responsibility, but do not use the words "I'm sorry." Apologies make you look weak. Instead, explain your plan to correct it or do better the next time.

One thing that comes naturally to some people and cannot be faked is truly loving your job and the organization you work for. When you can love the work you do and the company you work for, your boss can tell and they will love having you as an employee because your joy and your loyalty will be so obvious.

Of course, if you can’t bring yourself to love your job and the organization for which you work, it’s time to look for another opportunity. After all, you only live once!