Boss’s Day is scheduled each year for October 16th. Are you someone who observes this celebration? I’ve heard some think of it as a silly observance because: “Every day is Boss’s Day since they are the ones in charge.” Hmm, they do have a point.
However, as employees for our companies—whether we work from home or in a traditional office setting—it is good to have a healthy positive mindset regarding our boss and other supervisors we work with weekly. Doing so can help set up a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Some key points to keeping our bosses happy:
Be on time
Nothing is more aggravating to managers than wondering where their employees are when they should be present and focused on their work at hand. I once heard someone say, “Being on time means arriving early.” That’s a worthy goal to keep in mind, whether heading to the office or “clocking in” at home. Those in charge want to know they can count on us to be ready for work when they say it’s starting time.
Do your best
Performing well on the job may seem like a no-brainer, but it is easy to get lazy in our responsibilities. Look for ways to do your finest work with even the most mundane tasks. For example, how can you improve the tidiness of your workspace? How could you work ahead on daily tasks, so you’ll have time to help your supervisor with a special event? How might you encourage a fellow employee today who might be feeling unappreciated for their contributions at last week’s staff meeting?
Go beyond your typical responsibilities
Recently at a local company, I noticed a strong lead supervisor clearing off some trash from an employee breakroom table. Another time I saw her sweeping the floor in the common eating area. When I saw this person stepping outside of what she usually does for her job, I was impressed! She obviously is looking out for the betterment of the whole company more than feeling concerned about her reputation of appearing less-than. This leader boosted her integrity, in my opinion!
Demonstrate attentiveness
When was the last time you asked your supervisor how he thought things were going overall in the company? It’s helpful to show interest in the big picture (which is where your boss lives, by the way). Learn about some of the goals your boss is most interested in meeting. Your genuine interest in your boss’s perspective will not go unnoticed.
Clock in with a good attitude
There will always be parts of our jobs that are not our favorite things to do. We may need to attend a function on a day or weekend when we’d rather be home watching a game on TV. Or, it may be that time of the quarter when we need to push out that lengthy, monotonous report again! Rather than airing our grunts and moans to everyone we pass by on the way to our desk, try thinking of it as a task to complete so you can then do something you like better. Nobody—especially the boss—wants to listen to a constant complainer!
By putting yourself forward intentionally in your work each day, you will please those in authority over you and create a more uplifting place of business. By helping your boss succeed, you will as well! You’ll surely gain new skills and personal character development along the way.