10 Ways to Manage Your Boss for Career Growth

Do you find yourself wondering why it is that some people are fortunate enough to be promoted at the workplace, after another, and why are there others who remain in the same position for almost a year?  It's not always about working harder sometimes, it's about managing your boss smarter. Sounds a bit tricky, right? But what if the real key to moving up the career ladder is realizing what your manager wants to see from you and matching that? If you want to know how to deal with your boss, you will learn how you can earn his/her trust, get new projects to work on, and generally be noticed. So here is the question that will tell you how to make this relationship work for you. Let’s dive in.

Why Your Relationship with Your Boss Matters for Advancement

First, having a good working relationship with the boss is desirable because it will foster a professional relationship between the two of you. Other specific benefits of managing your manager include:

• Gain Your Boss Trust -  Establish trust with your boss so that they delegate most of the tasks expecting your decisions and capabilities.
• Secure Your Boss Support -  Close ties often lead to receiving support for projects and initiatives in the company or organization.
• Earn Their Respect - In an organization, I find that respect comes automatically once people notice that they are working with competent people who are willing to go the extra mile.
• Advance Your Career -  Networking with your superiors can help you advance in the company or get promoted to a higher position.
• Improve Your Job Satisfaction - A good relationship with your manager makes work more enjoyable and fulfilling.
• Increase Efficiency and Productivity - Consistent and efficient interaction makes work overall more effective.
• Improve Communication and Reduce Misunderstandings: Positive relationships enhance effective communication and minimize possible conflict situations.

10 Ways to Manage Your Boss

As a subordinate, you don’t just work for your boss and follow all his or her instructions. Instead, subordinates' relationships with their bosses are professional working relationships that have to be professional and healthy. The following are 10 strategies that would allow you to gain the trust of your boss and the necessary support for a career promotion.

Accept That Your Boss Has Authority – And Use It to Your Advantage

Let’s face it: It can be challenging to accept that someone is your superior, especially for those who are very ambitious, goal-oriented, or so used to being the one giving orders. In particular, the type of people who get annoyed with their bosses are those who work independently or those who consider themselves creative types whose ideas should be recognized and valued by their bosses.

But here’s the reality: No matter how you innovate, there is no way you will succeed in your attempt without support from your immediate boss. Appreciate that Steve Jobs was not only about these great innovations, he was all about execution, playing the corporate political game, by name Still, “Real artists ship,” he said, and that means you’ve got to know how to operate within systems, not against them.

Still, if you’re struggling to accept your boss as your authority figure, that is acceptable. A lot of hardworking people have problems with the concept of hierarchy. But rather than fighting it, treat it as a challenge: What is the potential to live your life in such a way that isn’t comfortable or natural for you?

The continuity remains not in being right, but in adapting to constraints and how to use those constraints to our advantage. Sometimes that means embracing the fact of power and trying to navigate the best that one can within parameters set by powerful people. The development of these emotional intelligence skills will assist you in establishing a longer-lasting career and more control in the future.

Prioritize Your Boss's Needs

One of the many ways how you can deal with your boss is to make it your goal to accomplish tasks assigned to him/her.

Reply to emails immediately: chime in first when your boss initiates a conversation with your team, and be the first one to make an offer for discussions after a presentation has been made. Taking a front seat during meetings or completing as many surveys as possible is merely an indication to them that you are fully committed to their cause. These practices go a long way to help the boss understand that you are interested in the organization and your job.

Take something off his to-do list: Check those assignments that your employer may not have time to complete and suggest you assist in doing those tasks. Career coach Fran Hauser highlights how she earned her first big promotion by freeing up her boss’s time through small, but impactful contributions, like managing vendor meetings and streamlining financial reports. Do not just say ‘Let me help you’ but how you would want to ease his burden and make his work lighter.

Create unexpected value. Self-rebranding guru Dan Rust advises that there is no better way of cementing oneself to an organization than by adding value way beyond the basic job description. For example, if your boss says ‘Customer feedback will be useful’, do not wait for him to give a specific instruction and then urgently and proactively collect this feedback and provide it to him. It is not sufficient to just do the job but do it to the amazement of your boss and demonstrate to your employer that you are a problem-solving individual.

Support Your Boss's Decisions 

People need appreciation and affirmation regardless of their rank in society or their organizational hierarchical standing. However, giving validation to your boss is not as easy as it sounds, as it needs some moderation.

• It feels like blindly following orders
• You might appear overly compliant or subservient
• You fear coming across as not thinking critically

Although it is never good to be completely loyal to a decision that is being made, not supporting your boss is also detrimental to your boss-subordinate relationship. This means there is a proper way of supporting them without going overboard.

Why You Should Support Your Boss

A study conducted by Robert Greene also in “The 48 Laws of Power” suggests that the load is sometimes borne by leaders, and they are not always thanked for their difficult decisions. Thus, even if they always seem to be appreciated, and they have egoistic and selfish attitudes, being unappreciated can foster resentment. Where you lack support, it sends a silent message of betrayal or lack of confidence in their leadership authority.

There are many instances in the working environment where bosses will like their subordinates to support them, especially during stumbling blocks. It is about how they are getting support.

The Wrong Way to Support Your Boss

This means that there should be some level of caution as you affirm your boss and his decisions; for instance, if he is willing to have your feedback on decisions that are highly publicized or contentious, do not just nod in agreement. Praising them too vocally for these endeavors may place you in a ridicule position, a ‘yes man’ – or a bootlicker. This is a sure way of making them lose confidence in you in a very short time.

For example:

Employee: In my opinion, the decision to reduce the team budget was completely correct. We need that leadership and you have made the hard choices.”

Boss (internally): “What are you doing? I didn’t even want to make that decision let alone have you make me look like the hero of it all.

Despite its good intentions, such praise may cause discomfort for your boss because it comes out as excessive and untrue.

The Right Way to Support Your Boss

One of the most unobtrusive and efficient methods of providing support is to support their decisions so that they can see you are on their side. While doing this do not shower them with compliments but align your support to the outcomes of the decisions they take and how you can assist in ensuring they succeed.

For example:

You: Looking at the changes we have applied in the team structure, I noticed that they are helping us to work effectively. I’m looking forward to seeing how we can carry this energy in doing the next project.”

This type of support emphasizes the outcomes of the decision and tacitly ensures you become committed to the success of that decision.

Support, Not Flattery

Finally, one does not have to go over the top with praising one’s boss to support him or her. It is about proving that you are a dependable and careful partner who cares about your partner’s successes. In this way, you will be backing up your actions to their vision while at the same time acknowledging the consequences of their decisions; all this without feeling as if you are putting on a show of being incredibly valuable.

Match Your Boss's Emotional Distance

The notion of the ‘emotional’ relationship between the subordinate and the superior is essential, as well as the right way to navigate it.

Some bosses may be willing to develop a friendly rapport with the employees, although it is much safer for the employee to mimic the sort of emotional distance that the boss displays. Initiating a personal relationship can be a good concept at times, but it can sometimes turn sour if the top barriers are not well set.

This means that while a manager is authorized to make decisions, he or she must do so with a degree of detachment. When employees become close and friendly with leaders, that closeness can unintentionally erode that authority. Of course, nobody should go overboard with familiarity, especially when it comes to personal relations with the employer – it is quite important to remember that too much closeness might spoil the direct, friendly relations between two people.

The Wrong Way to Approach Emotional Boundaries Employee: “Hey, you’ve got a great sense of humor. Some of the many things that you said, Sir, and the way you said them, made me think of my buddy Steve back home with his jokes about the ladies. Boss (internally): “What just happened? This is not how people act in a business setting.”

The Right Way to Approach Emotional Distance You: I want to especially thank you for being such a great team player as evidenced in the last project. It’s been a pleasure to work with a person who has so much strategic thinking about the team.

Align with Your Boss's Communication Style

Learning the communication style of your boss is one way of fostering good relations between yourself and your boss. Another reason for matching the tone of your communication with that of your boss is that everyone within the organization tends to like whoever is similar to them. This can assist you in earning its trust, proving that you are a professional, and preventing potential confusion.

When you know how your boss likes to communicate – whether that is direct or indirect, using formal or informal language, brief and to the point or more complex – you are not only able to communicate in a way that they are comfortable with but you are in the right frame of mind to anticipate how your boss is likely to respond to you. Not only does this make the interactions easier to manage, but it also decreases problems as well. If the two are communicating in a way that both are at ease with, this shows respect and this is good for one’s career.

Matching does not mean copying your boss’ communicative behavior rather it means adapting to your superior’s preferred means of interacting. Knowing how and when your boss communicates, whether face-to-face, by email, in quick calls, or lengthy meetings, is useful to be in tune with and can make you a better communicator and all-round team player.

The Wrong Way to Communicate with Your Boss

This is one of the worst sins an employee can ever commit – first of all, they forget that they have a completely different communication style. For example, if you are comfortable with relaxed talking while your supervisor is more strict in this aspect, you may try to change it, and it will look like an endeavor for a different reason. Likewise, if you value time-honored, elaborate conferences while your manager expects laconic straightforward meetings, you’re seen as a time-waster.

For example, imagine the following exchange:

Employee: ‘Sup, boss? I’ve got a small concern here – what are your thoughts on the new project map? I think it’s pretty awesome!" Boss: “Let me read it. I’ll get back to you later.” Employee: ‘Come on, it will only take a lot of time,’ they say.

In this case, the employee simply does not respect the style which the boss prefers, which is more orderly and not in a haste but rather in a hurried manner. This could be annoying to the boss since they may see the employee belt them up.

The Right Way to Communicate with Your Boss

To align with your boss’s communication style, take note of these key areas and adjust your behavior accordingly:

Direct vs. Indirect Communication

Some employers are very blunt early in their interactions and tell their employees precisely what they want from them, while others may put what they want subtly. However, if your boss is strictly business-oriented, be polite yet do not beat around the bush, and avoid unneeded politeness. If your boss is indirect don’t immediately demand a clarification—this is not about them dodging responsibilities but rather about subtlety.

Example:

Direct boss: “I need this report by noon.”

Indirect boss: “It would be great if this report could be done soon, but I understand if it takes some time.”

In the second case, the indirect boss is suggesting that you perform a particular action, yet they are not spelling out the instructions. In the case of corporate affairs and management, it is crucial to seize on such signals and respond positively to them rather than waiting to be told what to do.

Formal vs. Informal Tone

Some of the bosses will be very formal and want their subordinates to be equally formal while others are more relaxed and may even be casual with their subordinates. Follow their lead and if the boss is more formal don’t try to set a friendly relationship with him or her.

Example:

Formal boss: “We agreed that the presentation should be submitted before the day is out so, kindly make an effort to submit.”

Informal boss: “Hi there, do you have a little spare time at all I was wondering if I could get you to forward me the slides for tomorrow’s meeting.”

As a rule, it is better to change the pitch of the conversation to the key of your supervisor. If they’re business-like, avoid mixing casual language and business language but if they’re casual it is acceptable to be a little more laid back but be professional.

Quick vs. Detailed Communication

Some of your managers may like a brief summary while others would like a large amount of information along with details. If your boss is a person who does not like to read or hear long messages, make your message short and concise. If they incline toward deep analysis, do not rush with your opinions and statements, explain everything coherently yet laconically.

Example:

Quick boss: “Just give me the facts. Often such questions refer to performance, therefore, the following questions can be asked:

Detailed boss: “I would like to check on the status of any timeline and budget other than that if there is any arising challenge that needs to be discussed.”

Just be careful that depending on how your boss wants information he or she may want more detail in the updates.

In-Person vs. Electronic Communication

Try to be aware of the communication style of your superior and whether he or she is more comfortable with personal conferencing, or using email or messaging. Do not force yourself to schedule a face-to-face conversation if the other party seems comfortable typing fast emails, and vice versa: do not rely on emails, if your boss is very keen on talking on the phone or face-to-face.

Example:

In-person boss: Prefers these to be quick either at their desk or during a quick team meeting.

Electronic boss: Would rather prefer when the communication is done through electronic mail or an instant message since it will not take much of their time.

Try to honor your boss's request of how he/she wants to be communicated with not to be bothered or feel like you are inconveniencing them.

6. Turn Your Boss into Your Mentor

Probably one of the quickest ways for you to make progress in your profession is to transition your boss into your mentor. Aside from the fact that you receive personal and in some cases, even accurate advice and information it puts you in a place where you are favored in terms of opportunities and growth within a company. If you can get your boss as your mentor, you get a wealth of information that helps to advance you in a shorter time compared to other forms of mentoring.

Steps to Turn Your Boss into Your Mentor

This type of mentorship connection can be developed in several ways. Here's how:

Start Asking Questions About Your Work

The first tip is to look for ways to excel at what you are currently doing in the company. And if there are changes that are upcoming and need to be addressed or there is a positive change in the system then one should seek advice from the boss. Let them feel that you acknowledge their years of working in the organization.

Example:

You: This new project has just been handed over to me and I want to do it in the most efficient manner possible. Certainly, you may ask, “Would you like any tips on how to achieve the best outcome?”

This creates the opportunity for learning conversation and your boss looks at you as a person who wants to learn.

Show the Results of Their Advice

In case you receive feedback or a piece of advice from your boss, always return to him and explain how the input assisted you in achieving your goal. This helps to establish the fact that you cherish the input of such people and that the mentor-ship is helping.

Example:

You: To this I had this to say to them, “Thanks for the advice on how to deal with the presentation.” It went well and I am stronger about the angle I am taking. In particular, your feedback was invaluable and that’s how I got to the answer:”.

This makes it easier for the mentor to see that you are serious about them being able to teach or guide you and this marks the beginnings of a mentor-mentee relationship.

Expand to Broader Career Guidance

With time you should begin seeking advice on matters concerning company issues and general aspects of the job, growth, and promotion within the organization. At this stage, your boss may turn even more into a career advisor, who shares practical tips on how to further advance in your career.

Example:

You: This is because I am very interested in thinking about leadership strategies. : What do you suggest that I need to do in terms of focused academics or qualities to ensure that I am promoted to a managerial position?

Preceding broader questions gives an employer an indication that you are thinking beyond months of employment and seeking their insight on not only your current role but also your career.

Discuss Industry Trends and Job Opportunities

And if the relationship progresses you can ask about trends in the industry, with competitors or even if there will be any job openings in the future. If your advice-giving boss is receptive, they are a potential sponsor who besides offering advice also provides you with recommendations and mentoring as well as helps you find new opportunities.

Example:

You: I have also been coming across writers pointing to shifts in the industry and some exciting things that some companies are doing with tech. Has this pattern of team development been the desired process and the course we should follow as a team?”

At this point, if your boss feels you are receptive to his advice and directions, he might start lobbying for you or provide avenues for your advancement.

7. Protect Yourself from Jealous Colleagues

As your relationship with your boss improves and you progress in your career ladder some of your co-workers are likely to develop an attitude of envy. Still, associating with your boss more often may appear to be aggressive and others may consider you privileged. Well, then how is it possible to go about this without necessarily offending your counterparts or angering your colleagues?

The important thing is to be friendly and easily accessible but at the same time avoid focusing on the specific professional relationship you have with the boss. If your fellow commuters regard you as a simple fellow who does not sycophantically fawn over the boss—then you are okay; you are not vying for this or that position to unseat the boss. Your actions should demonstrate that you are a team player who is willing to contribute to the company in the best way possible, it should not align you with the perception that you want the boss to be your buddy.

How to Prevent Jealousy:

• Be Friendly to Everyone
• Never Brag About Your Relationship with Your Boss
• Downplay the Relationship
• Stay Humble and Avoid the Spotlight
• Maintain Professional Boundaries

8. Never Complain About Your Boss

Even though it may provide temporary relief, complaining about your boss is detrimental to your professional and personal development in the long run. The reality is, that complaining inevitably ends up in front of the person you are complaining about and it is destructive to your image and interpersonal relationships at the workplace.

The Hidden Dangers of Complaining About Your Boss

It Can Get Back to Them

It Undermines Your Authority and Reputation

It Shifts Your Focus to the Negative

It Can Impact Your Future Opportunities

What one has to bear in mind is that how you discuss your boss determines how others are likely to view you. Hence apart from preserving the relationship with your boss, you deny the complainer a chance to influence you and build your reputation as a professional who is not easily blinded by negativity but as someone who seeks solutions. This mindset and behavior will eventually translate into a higher level of career success and advancement.

9. Promote Yourself Without Threatening Your Boss

Career promotion is all about self-promotion, but doing so at the workplace, especially with your immediate supervisor, can be tricky. While standing out may be desirable for you, you may discover that at some point your goals are not aligned with those of your boss. Here’s how to self-promote effectively without ruffling feathers:

The Conflicts of Self-Promotion:

Lion vs. Cub: Promotion can easily be perceived to be arrogant by your boss; something that most bosses do not appreciate especially if they consider themselves to be the only boss. Loud motions to claim what you deserve might give a sign that you are a competitor for their place.

Teacher vs. Learner: If one is growing in fields where the manager is still a lot knowledgeable, then it becomes a problem because he or she may feel that they are being threatened. No-one wants to be upstaged by those they are mentoring and guiding in their line of work.

Master vs. Subordinate: Finally, your boss might feel threatened that one day you will surpass them or even get their position. This is the idea that comes under the “Never outshine the Master” law in the 48 Laws of Power.

How to promote tactfully

• Frame Achievements as Team Wins
• Highlight Team Effort
• Credit Your Boss
• Share Credit for Your Success

When advertising yourself diplomatically it is wise to sell your accomplishments in a way that creates a win-win situation for you and your employer. That is why when working, make sure you introduce people you are working with on the project, including your boss, in a way that encourages them to produce good results, and at the same time, you are creating a good image as a team player.

Remove Awkwardness, Establish a Friendly Relationship

A little uneasiness with your boss is normal and quite okay even in a business environment. Nevertheless, it is crucial to discuss it because the bosses are more willing to offer promotions to people they are close to, and not those with whom they have platonic or uncomfortable behavior.

Here’s how to remove that awkwardness and build a friendly, rapport-filled connection:

See Them as a Person, Not Just Your Boss - Stop perceiving your boss as a person to be feared or overmuch respected. Instead, look at them more as an individual; an individual who has needs, issues, and objectives similar to anyone reading this article.

Eliminate Personal Reserve - An audience can sense if a presenter is hesitant because they are nervous, or because they are constrained by protocol and policy – they will experience this as awkwardness. People need to embrace and be naturally friendly with each other.

Find Opportunities for Humor - Laughter works wonders in easing contention, but one should remember to understand the temperament of the boss. If they show a playful personality, allow yourself to have fun with them or continue what they started when they made a joke.

Go to Lunch Together - Laughter works wonders in easing contention, but one should remember to understand the temperament of the boss. If they show a playful personality, allow yourself to have fun with them or continue what they started when they made a joke.

In this way, you will help your boss to look at you as a pleasant person to work with which is always beneficial when considering promotions and similar.

Wrapping Up

Managing your boss isn't about manipulation, it's about building a mutually respectful and productive relationship.  By understanding their needs, communicating effectively, and being proactive, you can create a work dynamic that benefits both you and your boss. With the right approach, you’ll not only navigate workplace challenges more smoothly but also elevate your career and contribute to a positive, efficient work environment. After all, a great partnership with your boss is the key to professional success.