Surprise Your Boss - Frontline Leadership

In this blog you will often read about the importance of relationships. I believe that we are all wired to seek good relationships - with parents, with spouses, with kids - and yes, even at work. There are relationships with your team members and with customers. But, one of the most important relationships - and I believe the one that will define your happiness at work - is the relationship with your boss.

There are three things that I believe you can do to develop the type relationship that will make your work-life easier and mofulfillinging:

1. Try to understand their passion for life - what makes them happy. It may be kids or family. It could be hunting, fishing or a specific sports team. It could be their church or community service. Why should you know this? Because with this knowledge you can begin to build a personal relationship with them. Use the information to start discussions that don't focus on work. If you read something online that relates to their passion, send them the link. If there is an event in the city that ties to their passion, mention it to them. Relationships are built on personal passions. Just think about the people that you are close to - they probably know these things about you.
2. Find out how they are measured in the organization and seek to support their success. If your manager cares about the numbers, you should too. When given the opportunity, ask what you can do to help them reach the goals of the team and the company. Understand how you fit into the success and align your personal goals to their goals.
3. Be sure that they know your personal goals and aspirations. If you want to move into management - tell them. If you want more responsibility - tell them. I would not be where I am today if I had not shared my hopes and dreams with my managers.

The relationship that you have with your manager will define your happiness and success at the office. I believe it is the foundation for your success. In a future entry, we will talk about what to do if you work for someone that you do not like.....