You're struggling to get your boss to trust you. What can you do to build a stronger relationship?

1 Communicate effectively

Communication is essential to any successful relationship, especially in advertising. You must keep your boss apprised of your progress, challenges, and achievements, as well as understand their expectations, feedback, and goals. To communicate effectively, use the appropriate channels and frequency: email for routine updates, phone calls for urgent matters, and face-to-face meetings for brainstorming and presenting. Additionally, be clear, concise, and respectful - avoid jargon, ambiguity, and negativity. Utilize positive language, examples, and data to back up your points. Moreover, listen actively and empathetically; demonstrate interest by asking questions and acknowledging their perspective. Do not interrupt, argue, or criticize.

2 Deliver quality work

Building trust with your boss begins with delivering quality work consistently. To do this, you must understand the brief and objectives, plan and prioritize your tasks, and seek feedback and improve. Make sure you know what your boss wants, why they want it, and how they will measure it. Break down projects into manageable steps, set realistic deadlines, and focus on the most important and urgent tasks. Don't be afraid to ask for help, advice, or clarification. Show your boss that you can use their feedback to learn and grow. Demonstrate that you can implement their suggestions and improve your work.

3 Show initiative and creativity

Impressing your boss and gaining their trust requires initiative and creativity. To achieve this, be proactive and resourceful by anticipating problems and opportunities, and finding solutions independently. Additionally, strive for originality by experimenting with new techniques, tools, and platforms. Come up with fresh concepts, messages, and designs that are both compelling and innovative. Lastly, be flexible and adaptable to new challenges by adjusting your strategies to the changing situation. Don't resist change or stay in your comfort zone; embrace it.

4 Support your team and your boss

Finally, you can build a stronger relationship with your boss by supporting your team and your boss. This includes collaborating and cooperating with colleagues, appreciating and acknowledging their contributions, and aligning and advocating for their goals and vision. By following these tips, you can improve communication, performance, and attitude, as well as increase trust and respect. This will not only benefit you, but also your satisfaction and success in advertising.

5 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?