You're struggling to get noticed by your boss. What's the one thing you need to do?

1 Demonstrate your impact

The first step to getting noticed by your boss is to show them how you contribute to the bottom line and the strategic goals of the company. Don't just report on your activities, such as how many calls you made, how many demos you delivered, or how many proposals you sent. Instead, focus on the outcomes, such as how much revenue you generated, how many new customers you acquired, or how many existing accounts you expanded. Use data and metrics to quantify your impact and highlight your achievements. For example, you can create a dashboard that tracks your key performance indicators, such as sales volume, conversion rate, customer satisfaction, and retention rate.

3 Seek feedback and improvement

The third step to getting noticed by your boss is to seek feedback and improvement. Don't settle for the status quo or rest on your laurels. You need to show your boss that you are eager to learn, grow, and excel. For example, you can ask your boss for constructive criticism and suggestions on how to improve your skills, your performance, and your results. You can also seek feedback from your peers, your customers, and your mentors. Moreover, you can invest in your professional development by taking courses, attending webinars, reading books, or joining industry groups. Show your boss that you are committed to excellence and innovation.

4 Take initiative and ownership

The fourth step to getting noticed by your boss is to take initiative and ownership. Don't wait for instructions or directions from your boss. You need to show them that you are a self-starter, a problem-solver, and a leader. For example, you can identify new opportunities, propose new solutions, or launch new projects that can benefit the company, the team, or the customers. You can also volunteer for extra responsibilities, such as mentoring new hires, leading a training session, or organizing a team event. Moreover, you can take ownership of your mistakes, your failures, and your challenges. Show your boss that you are accountable, responsible, and reliable.

5 Build relationships and trust

The fifth step to getting noticed by your boss is to build relationships and trust. Don't isolate yourself or work in silos. You need to show your boss that you are a team player, a collaborator, and a networker. For example, you can build rapport with your boss by expressing your appreciation, your support, and your interest. You can also build trust with your boss by being honest, transparent, and respectful. Furthermore, you can build relationships with your colleagues, your partners, and your customers by being helpful, friendly, and professional. Show your boss that you are a valuable asset, a loyal ally, and a trusted partner.

6 Ask for what you want

The final step to getting noticed by your boss is to ask for what you want. Don't be shy or passive. You need to show your boss that you are confident, ambitious, and deserving. For example, you can ask for a promotion, a raise, a bonus, or a recognition. You can also ask for more resources, more support, or more flexibility. However, before you ask, make sure you have a clear and compelling case that demonstrates why you deserve what you want, how it will benefit the company, and how it will help you achieve your goals. Show your boss that you are not afraid to speak up, negotiate, and advocate for yourself.

7 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?