HR expert Natasha Kerslic revealed that flattery is rarely the best way to earn your boss's respect at work and enhance your career. Kerslic discussed methods employees use to attract their managers' attention, including:
**Taking on Unwanted Tasks**
Volunteering for tasks that no one else wants to do is a great way to make your boss value your work. The more workload you take on, the busier you become, making you indispensable. Kerslic stated, "Capture your boss's attention by volunteering for time-consuming tasks like data gathering, handling administrative matters, or organizing meeting logistics. When you want to advance in your career, you should take on a lot of work. This is also how you gain experience from the opportunities available to you."
**Meeting Your Boss's Needs**
Kerslic says anticipating your boss's needs and focusing on the parts of their job that cause them the most trouble can yield rewards. She added, "If you know that your boss leaves things until the last minute to prepare for weekly marketing meetings, you could offer to draft the presentation in advance. Make their life easier by incorporating the latest campaign metrics and creative concepts so they can review and finalize it without time pressure."
**Preparing a List of Issues to Address in One Meeting**
Managers often deal with various issues with colleagues who come to them about employment and budget concerns. Therefore, employees can note these issues and save them for one meeting. Kerslic stated, "Next time you face a difficult situation, take the time to think of a thoughtful solution. Instead of throwing problems at your boss, think proactively. By presenting some well-considered options, you provide a way out of the problem, making your boss's life easier amid the chaos and drawing attention to your skills."
**Taking Pride in Your Boss's Achievements**
Always take time to show appreciation for your boss's contributions to the project instead of taking the credit for yourself. Kerslic said, "Make yourself the employee who notices that the boss is doing a good job. Thank them for their guidance when helping with a project. By sharing the spotlight, you show that you can be generous and know how to distribute appreciation when the time comes. She added, "Giving some recognition (without flattery!) helps build goodwill in the relationship."
