You're struggling to get ahead in your career. How can you make sure you're meeting your boss's expectations?

If you feel like you're stuck in a rut and not making any progress in your career, you might be wondering what your boss thinks of your performance and potential. Meeting your boss's expectations is crucial for getting recognition, feedback, and opportunities for advancement. But how can you make sure you're on the same page and delivering what they want? Here are some tips to help you align your goals and actions with your boss's vision and needs.

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1 Ask for clarity

One of the most common reasons for miscommunication and frustration between employees and managers is a lack of clarity about expectations and priorities. Don't assume you know what your boss wants from you or how they measure your success. Instead, ask them directly and frequently about their goals, standards, and feedback. Seek to understand their perspective, challenges, and preferences. Clarify your role, responsibilities, and deadlines. Confirm your understanding and ask for confirmation in return.

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2 Communicate effectively

Another key factor for meeting your boss's expectations is to communicate effectively and proactively. Don't wait for them to ask you for updates, reports, or solutions. Instead, keep them informed of your progress, achievements, and challenges. Use the communication channels and methods they prefer, whether it's email, phone, or face-to-face. Be concise, clear, and respectful. Avoid surprises, excuses, or complaints. Focus on facts, results, and solutions.

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Patricia Dollane Dlamini (F .Inst.D)(MBA)

Founder & CEO| Entrepreneur |Strategist |Consultant |ED Practitioner |Personal/Business Growth Coach |Mentor |Accredited Training Facilitator & Assessor | NPOs Governance| Master Facilitator Entrepreneurial Mindset |NED
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Understand expectations; Agree on key milestones and the how they would like reporting to look like. Work on checkin points plan and get the bosses buy-in. execute!! Always be receptive to feedback and never fear asking for it!!

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3 Align your goals

To get ahead in your career, you need to align your personal and professional goals with your boss's goals and the organization's vision. Show your boss that you understand and support their objectives and that you can contribute to their success. Align your actions and decisions with their priorities and values. Demonstrate your initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Seek opportunities to learn, grow, and take on more responsibilities. Show your boss that you're ready for the next level.

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4 Seek feedback

One of the best ways to improve your performance and meet your boss's expectations is to seek feedback regularly and constructively. Don't be afraid to ask for praise, criticism, or suggestions. Listen to their feedback with an open mind and a positive attitude. Thank them for their input and show them how you use it to improve your work and skills. Ask for specific examples, benchmarks, and action steps. Follow up on your progress and achievements.

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5 Build trust

Finally, meeting your boss's expectations requires building trust and rapport with them. Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, especially in the workplace. To build trust with your boss, you need to be honest, reliable, and respectful. Deliver on your promises and commitments. Admit your mistakes and learn from them. Respect their authority and decisions. Support their vision and goals. Show your appreciation and recognition. Be loyal, supportive, and professional.

Meeting your boss's expectations is not only important for your career advancement, but also for your satisfaction and motivation. By following these tips, you can improve your communication, performance, and relationship with your boss and increase your chances of getting ahead in your career.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Francesca Sommer

Executive Leadership ♦ Strategic & Fiscal Planning ♦ Government Relations/Public Affairs ♦ Fund Development
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While all of the previously referenced steps are on point and provide good guidance, one must also look with a critical eye at one's potential in the particular company. Additionally, if the individual is "struggling" then one needs to evaluate their goodness of fit in that company or organization. There is no purchase in struggling by doing all the "right" things and even do them well, and still not advance. While we all want to do well and rise in the organization, we also should realistically consider our own desires, our purpose, and what fuels our joy in employment. Those factors may be aligned with the current environment, but they also may not. Take time to consider what feeds your soul.

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Jayakumar Sundararaj

A servant leader, hands-on engineer, loves to help people.
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To ensure you're meeting your boss's expectations and advancing in your career, it’s essential to communicate proactively. Begin by asking for clear guidelines and objectives to align your goals with your boss's vision. Regular, effective communication keeps you on the same page and can prevent misunderstandings. Actively seek feedback to understand your performance and areas for improvement. Trust is foundational, so be reliable and honest in your dealings. Building trust also involves understanding your boss's challenges and helping to address them. Additionally, consider your career trajectory and ongoing learning to stay ahead in your field. Always be ready to adapt and refine your approach based on feedback and changing circumstances.

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You're struggling to get ahead in your career. How can you make sure you're meeting your boss's expectations?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Ask for clarity

2 Communicate effectively

3 Align your goals

4 Seek feedback

5 Build trust

6 Here’s what else to consider

Executive Management

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You're struggling to get ahead in your career. How can you make sure you're meeting your boss's expectations?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Ask for clarity

2 Communicate effectively

3 Align your goals

4 Seek feedback

5 Build trust

6 Here’s what else to consider

Executive Management

Rate this article

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