7 Steps to Blow Your Boss's Mind

A good relationship with your boss is key to setting your career on the fast track and increasing your chances of being promoted. Developing this relationship means being a good employee while working to make your boss's life easier. Showing some initiative may impress your boss, but these seven steps can help you blow him away.

1. Immerse Yourself in the Company

A dedication to your company and your industry is a sure way to impress your boss. Go beyond professional development by keeping up with industry trends, learning about competitors and understanding the issues or challenges your company is facing. Learn about the company's long-term goals, and share your interest in the company's success, as well as your own goals, with your boss.

2. Anticipate Your Boss's Needs

Instead of only finding information or providing updates when asked, impress your boss by putting yourself in his shoes and sending him regular updates on information that would interest him. This type of dedication makes your boss's professional life easier while creating a sense of trust.

3. Identify Your Own Mistakes

Rather than simply admitting your mistakes when they're found out, go a step further by being the first to point them out to your boss. Explain the actions you've taken to remedy the issue, showing genuine remorse while maintaining a professional tone. Your boss is sure to remember your honesty.

4. Update Your Skills

Keeping up with the responsibilities and technologies your job requires is a sign of a good employee, but if you really want to impress your boss, engage in self-training by participating in workshops, taking courses and attending seminars related to your field. Don't be afraid to share your participation with your boss so he sees your initiative.

5. Be Proactive

Impress your boss by being the first to volunteer for challenging tasks or projects, demonstrating your eagerness and enthusiasm. Just don't take on more than you can handle since a failed project speaks louder than your original eagerness to help out. Additionally, take steps to fix problems you see in the workplace, and talk to your boss about changes that could benefit the company in the long run.

6. Make Connections

Blow your boss's mind by making one-on-one connections with workers in other departments or even in partner companies. When your boss needs help or input from outside the department, you can bring up your connection, telling your boss you know someone who can help solve the issue.

7. Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

When a problem arises, be vocal about potential solutions, and take any necessary steps to solve the problem without going over your boss's head. Maintain a calm, calculative demeanor to show your boss that you know how to handle issues.

Being a team player is important when trying to blow your boss away, so maintain a good relationship with your co-workers, avoiding actions that only make you look good at their expense. Demonstrate your strong work ethic, integrity and enthusiasm every chance you get to impress your boss a little more every day.

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