When it comes to loving your job, enjoying the work you do each day is only part of the equation. To thrive at work, you need to have healthy relationships with people, including your supervisors. In addition to consulting a career coach, here are some tips to strengthen your important workplace relationships. 

How to Improve Your Relationship With Your Supervisor

1. Complete Tasks 

It might seem like a simple piece of advice, but performing the basic duties of your job enhances your workplace relationships. At a minimum, supervisors rely on employees to get work done and be mindful of important deadlines. If your supervisor (aka “boss” but I’m not a fan of that word) specifically asks you to complete a task that fits within your responsibilities, demonstrate a willingness to help and follow through. And, if you’re running into roadblocks, tell her before it’s too late to develop an alternative plan or deadline.

2. Learn Communication Styles

As any career coach can tell you, every manager communicates differently. Some people skip small talk and dive right into assigning tasks.  Others will chat for a while before turning to work topics.

Some supervisors are collaborative and expect you to ask questions or give feedback. Others make decisions with little input from coworkers. Learn your manager’s communication style and do your best to respect it during your interactions. However, if the supervisor’s communication style frequently gets in the way of doing your work or offends you, speak to him or a trusted colleague to get insights on how best to deal with it. 

3. Don’t Make Excuses

If you’re consistently performing well, dropping the ball on occasion is normally not a career-ending issue. Most people have moments where work is de-prioritized due to family emergencies or major life events, and even in normal circumstances, everyone makes mistakes.

Try to own up to your actions, apologize and avoid excuses and finger pointing. Managers respect people who take responsibility, even in tough moments. 

4. Seek Feedback 

Most supervisors take note when an employee actively seeks and applies feedback. It’s common to have annual or biannual review specifically for this purpose. However, don’t be afraid to ask for insight on your performance throughout the year –  as long as it’s not to get a pat on a back – and to apply that information for better performance. 

If you need help creating positive workplace relationships, reach out to Margaret M. Enloe, JD, PCC. This career and retirement coach in New York City helps people improve their work performance and achieve their career goals. She offers virtual appointments to clients throughout the country. See her client’s success stories online or schedule an appointment today by calling (646) 872-3674.