As an employee (or boss), you can be proactive in clarifying roles and expectations – making you happier
If you are still reading, you know that it’s crucial to have a strong (or otherwise healthy) relationship with your boss. There are a variety of reasons including influence over workplace stress (real or perceived), the ability to advance or stall your career, micromanagement, friction, resentment, assignment of projects, etc. Your boss can make your workday one you look forward to, or one of dread. In simple terms, your boss has (at least some) effect on your personal health.
This effect could be positive or negative. According to Kronos, 69 percent of employees believe their managers set a good example in the way they behave, agreeing that they are ethical, honest, collaborative, creative, empowering, innovative, dedicated, and trustworthy. A whopping 92 percent of those who believe this to be true, also believe their managers adhere to those values on a regular basis.
A good example, however, does not indicate a good working relationship. Having values does not ensure good leadership. And, although you don’t have to have a boss as your best friend, you will need to work well with him/her for the host of reasons above. Besides, they hold a great deal of your future in their hands.
When both you and your boss aren’t clear in communication, when expectations aren’t met (or clear), it’s then that little issues can grow into large differences that make the relationship unbearable. This is the point where many employees place the blame squarely at the feet of their boss while abdicating their personal responsibility in the whole affair. Practice these steps to stop blaming and start contributing to the strength of your relationship with your boss:
Begin the process with a Job Scorecard and you’ll have more control over your work destiny, greater workplace fulfillment, and you’ll help your company become a healthy workplace. Your goal shouldn’t be to be best buddies with your boss; instead focus on establishing a good communication rhythm, building trust, staying aligned —and a good relationship will follow. To gain a better relationship with your boss, use a Job Scorecard.
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