Today, let’s talk about something that can make a big difference in your career journey: impressing a new boss. It can be nerve-wracking (to say the least!) to start a new job and meet a new boss, but there’s no better way to start on the right foot than to create a good first impression.
First of all, it sets the tone for the rest of your time in the company. If you start with a positive impression, it can help create a strong foundation for future communication, projects, and interactions with your boss. It can also help establish trust and credibility, which is ESSENTIAL when working in teams or seeking new opportunities within the company.
Now, it’s important to acknowledge that not all bosses are the same. Some may be easy to impress with a positive attitude and strong work ethic, while others may require more time and effort in building a rapport. But regardless of your boss’s personality, it’s always beneficial to show a willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute in any way possible.
So today, we will be sharing practical strategies and impactful actions that can help you prove your worth to your new bosses. We will look at different things you can do and areas for improvement that can help you have the best working relationship with your new boss.
How To Impress a New Boss
So, let’s dive right in and discover some super helpful tips that will leave your boss wowed!
Once you’ve learned all you can from this blog, we HIGHLY recommend heading over to the Career Contessa Podcast and the Work Party Podcast for more information on all things living your best work-life!
Be punctual and pay attention.
This means tuning in to their communication style. Maybe they’re more laid-back and prefer a casual, conversational approach. Or maybe they’re all business, straight to the point. Whatever it may be, take note and adjust accordingly.
Oh, and plan to arrive a few minutes early to meetings and appointments. This shows that you value your boss’s time and are committed to the work environment.
Check out this episode of Him and Her With Lauryn Evarts and Michael Bosstick with guest Nicole Walters for an inspiring talk about how to create the career and life you want!
Identify their working style.
Every boss has their own unique working style and company culture, so take the time to observe and understand it. Are they detail-oriented or more big-picture? Do they prefer frequent check-ins or more independence? By identifying their working style, you can tailor your approach to align with their preferences.
Listen to this episode of Career Contessa to learn the 10 questions to ask to better identify company culture BEFORE you commit to that new job!
Do things their way.
Once you’ve identified their working style, adapt your approach accordingly. This doesn’t mean losing your individuality, but rather finding ways to incorporate their preferences into your work. It shows your boss that you’re flexible, attentive, and committed to their vision.
Be a team player.
Take the time to get to know your team members and their strengths. A good working relationship with your colleagues can go a long way. Bonus points for lending a helping hand whenever possible. Being a team player is one of the best ways to become invaluable at work!
Share institutional knowledge.
If you have experience or knowledge that can benefit the team or company, don’t hesitate to share it. Whether it’s a process improvement idea or industry insights, your boss will appreciate your initiative and value your contribution.
Admit mistakes and learn from them.
We’re all human, and mistakes happen. Instead of trying to cover up or deflect blame, own up to your mistakes. Show accountability, take responsibility, and focus on learning and growing from the experience. Your boss will admire your honesty and willingness to improve.
If this is something you struggle with, know you’re not alone. Listen to this episode of TSC: Him & Her to learn how to make mistakes, recover, and learn from them.
Ask good questions.
Curiosity is a superpower, my lovelies! Asking thoughtful and insightful questions shows your boss that you’re engaged, proactive, and invested in your work. It also demonstrates your desire to learn and understand the bigger picture.
Keep them updated.
Your boss is busy, so make their life easier by keeping them informed about the progress of your projects. Regularly share updates, milestones, and achievements. Not only does it give them peace of mind, but it also showcases your organization and communication skills.
Build a positive rapport.
Building a strong and positive working relationship with your boss is essential. Show genuine interest in their experiences, share your insights, and engage in open and respectful communication. Creating a comfortable and collaborative atmosphere will leave a lasting impression.
You can check out this roundup of podcasts to help you build more confidence and boldness every day.
Communicate well and set boundaries.
But, what if your new boss is difficult to work with? It can be challenging, but communication is key. Different bosses have different communication styles. This is key when you want to learn how to deal with a difficult boss. Ensure you establish clear boundaries as well. If it’s something more serious, consider talking to HR or exploring other career options.
Here’s a useful episode from Mind Body No Soul that explains the importance of setting boundaries and how to go about it.
Impressing a new boss takes time and effort, but isn’t impossible.
Don’t forget that impressing your boss is an ongoing process. Keep refining your skills, seeking feedback, and striving for growth. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a strong professional relationship. Patience, perseverance, and continuous improvement are key ingredients for long-term success. So, put in the effort with your work hours and watch as the efforts bear fruit.
You can do it! And, if you need more inspiration, check out one of our many podcasts. You can also come back weekly to read our posts! We have a lot of content that can help you become the best version of yourself. But for now, it’s time to show your boss and the world who you are!