What Your Boss Really Wants From You

I wrote this article and it was published on October 20, 2011 in the York County Coast Star

Delivering what your boss wants is your ticket to the career promised land. Working with thousands of managers and executives in my consulting practice, I have consistently found that all bosses have particular expectations, but nearly all want the following from their employees:

1.Energy–it’s the first thing your boss sees and feels when you show up for work each day. Act like you want to be there. Be positive and demonstrate that you have a passion for the job.

2. Competence—if you can’t do the job, stop wasting everyone’s time. Demonstrate that you can perform. And don’t talk about the tasks you’ve performed, tell your boss about what you’ve accomplished.

3.Results and Accomplishments—employers pay for results. They don’t pay you for simply showing up and performing tasks. Show how you’ve saved money, increased efficiency, or soothed an upset customer. You need to differentiate yourself and this is one way to  do that.

4.Engagement—bosses want workers who  believe in what they are doing and who believe in their company. They want you to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Engagement is the nectar of every organization.

5. Strong Communication Skills—interpersonal communication skills are critical in business life. Think before you speak. Proof your written work. Listen. And sound like you know what  you’re talking about.

6. Fit and Compatibility—bosses want someone who will fit in. Be a part of the team. Talk positively about your boss, colleagues and company. Get involved in company activities. It is  important to differentiate yourself in your work, but now is not the time  to be counterculture.

7. Self-Confidence—bosses want to know they can trust you to perform and you’ll produce great results. Speak with authority, have a commanding presence, maintain eye contact, and back it up with a track record of ongoing success. Believe in yourself or no one will take you seriously.

8. Flexibility and Adaptability—organizational  life is in constant flux. Show that not only are you not afraid of change, but that you thrive with change and ambiguity. If you can’t roll with it, corporate life is not for you.

9. Ability to Think and Solve Problems—anyone can identify problems. Bosses embrace those who can solve them. Show that you are an analytical thinker, that you are logical in your approach, and that you make things happen. Be the “go to” person.

10. Never Be a Risk—make sure your boss doesn’t regret the day she met you. Be sure she understands that you  will come to work everyday, will fit in, you’ll make a contribution and you’ll make her look good.

 Always focus on what your boss wants and needs and give it to him. When he’s comfortable with you, confident in your abilities, then your star will begin to rise. It’s that simple.

Let me hear your thoughts and comments.