Here’s the catch-22, unless you have a particularly close relationship, your boss is not likely to burden you with their pressures.
In this case, don’t push to know, but pay attention and be discerning. You’ll gain enough awareness to lead up well.
7. Become a stand-out problem solver.
Anyone can spot a problem and complain; leaders find solutions and create.
The best problem solvers lead up more effectively and therefore rise up faster in responsibility.
A six-word course in leadership sounds like this, “solve problems, make progress, help people.
The first thing you need to become a good problem solver is to think about time. Where in your calendar have you set aside time to think?
It might be 30 minutes a day or 4 hours once a week. There’s more than one plan that works, but protect some time to think.
8. Understand the limits and boundaries of the relationship.
A clear understanding of the limits and boundaries of your relationship with your boss is the best path toward a fulfilling and rewarding day-to-day rapport.
Even if you wish the design of the relationship were different, knowing the reality is essential to enjoying your job.
If you are not sure what your relationship is supposed to look like, ask.
That conversation often opens the door for both of you to experience a greater enjoyment of the relationship.
If merely asking the question in a respectful tone causes tension, slow down and ask permission to bring it up at another time.
The point here, either way, is to minimize frustration and maximize enjoyment.
This article about how to lead up well originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
