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What your boss thinks about you plays a significant role in shaping your career trajectory. Not only do they control the type of projects you are assigned, but they also have a major influence on whether you get promoted or even lose your job. If your boss thinks poorly of you, it can taint their interactions with you and potentially harm your career.
While having a boss that does not like you can be challenging, it is not the end of the world. Rather than running away from the situation by seeking a new job or transferring departments, think about implementing some techniques to strengthen your bond with your supervisor. there are some steps you can take to try and win over your boss.
Here are a few tips that will help:
1. Do not avoid your boss
If you suspect that your boss has unfavourable opinions about you or negative feelings towards you, it can be tempting to try and stay out of their way. However, this approach may cause more harm than good. This can cause people to view you as unimportant and possibly convince them that you are not valuable to the team. Instead, take the initiative and demonstrate your worth by proactively contributing ideas and solutions. Your boss might not like you because they do not see the value you bring to the team.
2. Engage your boss in conversations
It can be difficult to start a dialogue with your boss when you believe they have bad feelings for you, but it’s important to try. Start by saying hello and asking questions that demonstrate an interest in their perspectives and projects. Finding common ground, such as their interest or hobby, can facilitate communication and improve conversations.
3. Be punctual to the office or meetings
Make an effort to arrive early to the office or meetings before the scheduled time, even when it may not be easy. This shows your confidence and your eagerness to work. Remind yourself every day to put your focus on doing a great job for yourself, your career, and your team rather than obsessing over your relationship with your boss. Additionally, being punctual has its perks which are great for your career.
4. Demonstrate professionalism and commitment
Making an excuse to leave work early can be tempting when you believe your boss has bad sentiments for you. But doing so can give the impression that you are evading your duties and could damage your relationship with your boss. Instead, try to stay and make the most of it; demonstrate your commitment and work ethic by showing that you can handle any situation with grace and professionalism. Doing so will help them view you more favourably.
5. Utilise thoughtful compliments
A well-placed compliment can help to strengthen your working relationship with our boss. However, you must be mindful of how you give compliments so they don’t come across as too flattering or insincere. Keep your compliments focused on specific areas of their work and steer clear of personal matters. Give compliments only when they are truly deserving, people can usually tell when a compliment is insincere. Also, remember to be courteous and considerate in your communication.
6. Avoid negative talk about your boss
No matter how close you are to your colleagues, it is important to remember that talking negatively about your boss is never acceptable. Not only is it disrespectful, but it can lead to serious trouble in the workplace. Instead of venting about your situation to your colleagues, find a dependable buddy or authority to confide in outside of the workplace. Keep in mind that maintaining professional behaviour and safeguarding your relationship with your supervisor is essential for your career.
The reality is, your boss might never like you and you might never know why, but if they respect you and the work you do, then you could make do with that. However, if it’s making it difficult for you to do your job, then just follow the tips above to help bridge the gap. Managing your relationship with your boss can be challenging, but by understanding their perspective, engaging in conversations, showing up early, showing your value, avoiding negative talk and using thoughtful compliments, you can improve your relationship. If all else fails and the environment is becoming toxic, consider switching to another department or getting a job at another company.
The journey to career progression can be challenging and sometimes lonely. That is why we have created a vibrant, supportive community of individuals who help, encourage and advise others within the ecosystem. Join the STRETCH Plus community here.
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