Building strong relationships at work, particularly with your leader, is important for professional success. However, it can be challenging: leaders often juggle multiple responsibilities, leaving little time for personal interactions. Despite this, establishing a relationship with your leader is possible and can be highly rewarding for both parties.
One way to start a relationship is to provide value to your leader or help solve a problem for them. Think about unique insights you could share from your perspective that your leader might not be aware of, such as team dynamics or potential ways to make a process more efficient. These insights can demonstrate your keen eye for detail and your proactive approach, qualities that leaders appreciate.
A more direct approach is to express your intention to build a relationship. It might sound like, "I realize you've got a lot on your plate, but I'd love to develop a relationship so we can collaborate effectively on X project." This straightforward approach communicates your desire for synergy and commitment to the project's success.
Another strategy is to learn about your leader's area of strength and collaborate with them. This approach shows your eagerness to grow professionally, your respect for their expertise, and giving you common ground with your leader.
Building a relationship with your leader may be challenging but is achievable. By offering value, expressing your intentions, and learning from their strengths, you can foster a relationship that benefits you, your leader, and the entire team.
Chew On This:
What’s one step you could take this week to build a stronger relationship with your people leader?