Friday, November 14, 2008

MAKING THE A-LIST



Looking for a great way to earn that raise or promotion? Get on your manager's A-List.

It's a simple fact: if you consistently show your manager that you're doing a great job, you'll progress further, faster. Start by finding ways to get noticed and separate yourself from the pack. To help, try using these techniques to create a lasting positive impression:

1. COMMUNICATE CLEARLY.
When in doubt, especially if you or your manager is new to the job, err on the side of clarity. Ask questions when things are unclear, as opposed to making dangerous assumptions (what's “soon” to you may not be “soon” to your manager).

Provide your manager with regular updates about your projects and plans. Be careful, though, not to go overboard – ask him directly if you're providing enough information or too much.

2. LIVE UP TO YOUR COMMITMENTS.
The phrase “under promise, over deliver” may be an oldie, but it's still a goodie. Don't shy away from new challenges; just make reasonably sure you can hit an objective before taking on the additional responsibility. By consistently delivering high quality work in a timely manner, you will undoubtedly gain your manager's attention.

3. UNDERSTAND WHAT MAKES YOUR MANAGER TICK.
If you don't already know them, learn your manager's pet peeves – and avoid them.

Find out what his priorities are – and incorporate them into your own (e.g., if your manager is a numbers guy, quantify all your results). Anticipate his needs by providing what you know he'll want before he asks (e.g., if you know your manager will ask for three quotes before approving a purchase order, get all three before approaching him). Show him that you understand the issues he faces and you're sure to make your mark.

4. PROVIDE SOLUTIONS ¬– NOT JUST PROBLEMS.
Hey, stuff happens. Everyone makes mistakes. But if something does go wrong, view it as an opportunity to set yourself apart from chronic excuse-makers. Own up to the problem or mistake and come to the table with potential solutions. Your manager will appreciate your ability to think for yourself and manage a difficult situation.

5. MIRROR YOUR MANAGER.
Observe how your manager communicates with you and mirror his preferred method: if your manager likes email, use it; if he prefers voicemail, phone in your updates.

When possible, keep office hours similar to his: if he's a morning person, start coming in a little earlier; when he's working late to meet a deadline, offer to stay and help.

Last but not least, emulate the way he dresses (i.e., level of professionalism). If you want to impress the manager, start dressing like one yourself.

6. BE POSITIVE.
When you celebrate a departmental success, send a congratulatory email and copy your manager. The gesture will draw
attention to your project's success as well as your leadership skills.

During more stressful times, strive to maintain a positive attitude. For every two complaints or suggested improvements you make to your manager, point out eight positive things. Your consistent optimism and enthusiasm will not go unnoticed.

7. TACKLE NEW PROJECTS.
Examine your department to identify weaknesses, process gaps or other potential problems. Approach your manager with ideas for overcoming these challenges and take responsibility for seeing the project through.

Alternately, if your manager comes to you with an idea for improvement, respond to it constructively. Instead of throwing up roadblocks, keep an open mind and brainstorm ways to tackle the project together.

8. TAKE A CALCULATED RISK.
A manager will notice a talented employee who demonstrates his desire for excellence by occasionally sticking his neck out. So when the time is right, make a bold move. Volunteer for a difficult assignment or challenge the “status quo” to improve work processes. Your courage and enthusiasm will increase your visibility and earn the respect of your manager and co-workers alike.

Sources used to write this article:

Heller, M. How to Impress
Your Boss.
http://www.howtodothings.com/careers/how-to-impress-your-boss

Six Ways to Impress Your Boss.
http://www.black-collegian.com/
career/impress1299.shtml

Steen, Margaret. 10 Habits that Bosses Love.
http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/jobseeker/tools/ept/printallept.html?post=480&eptTemplete=careerarticles

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