Note: I realize that a lot of people dislike the word “boss.” I use it here for ease as a catch-all for any workplace superior. It is not intended to sound derogatory or condescending in any way.

As a former executive assistant, I have some very specific beliefs about the relationship that takes place between “boss” and “employee.” Whether you’re an administrative professional or in another field entirely is immaterial—everyone (except the CEO) has a manager or leader to whom they report (and some have more than one!). Additionally, everyone, at some point or another, has struggled to build a satisfying relationship with that person or group.

It is my belief that employees should always attempt to build partnerships with the people over them. Admittedly, that’s sometimes easier said than done. This partnership idea usually requires a bit of a mindset shift for both parties. And often, the employee must forge the road ahead, positioning himself or herself as a partner by taking intentional action and demonstrating purposeful behaviors.

Having built a few powerful partnerships with bosses in the past, I can tell you the results are well worth the effort. As a partner, my boss treated me as a trusted colleague. I was encouraged to share my opinions, ideas and perspectives. I influenced key decisions, helped solve problems, and even acted as a sounding board when my boss just needed to brainstorm.

I was able to have a deeper impact through my work, which meant my boss got a more effective employee and I enjoyed greater career fulfillment. It was a win-win.

Building powerful partnerships with superiors is a process that takes time and intention. There are specific things you must do to help make it happen. If you’re looking to create this kind of relationship with your boss—or if you want to strengthen an already established partnership—this month’s webinar will show you how.

How to Build a Powerful Partnership with Your Boss (Webinar)

Description: 

Boss, manager, leader, supervisor… Whatever you call them, superiors in the workplace can be intimidating. The idea of creating a “partnership” with them might sound difficult or even downright odd. After all, they’re the BOSS and you’re the EMPLOYEE.

Regardless of the organizational hierarchy and your position in it, you can collaborate with workplace higher-ups to create mutual benefit—and that’s what a partnership is all about.

Learning to position yourself as a partner and strengthen this critical relationship will help you become a more valuable asset to the team. It also has the potential to positively impact your career in dramatic ways.

In this session, you will learn…

• Strategies to improve communication and become your boss’s trusted ally
• Simple ways to make your boss’s life easier and position yourself as a problem solver
• How to balance your boss’s strengths and weaknesses by “filling the gaps”
• How to voice disagreement in the right way (and why it’s an essential piece of the puzzle)
• How to overcome intimidation and build solid professional rapport