You want to be a better leader. How can building relationships with your managers help?

It's said that all sales are rooted in a positive relationship. In business, the strength of your network is the best indicator of the success you will see. Even introverts (like me!) quickly learn that nothing is accomplished in isolation. Whether you are looking for sounding boards, constructive criticism, encouragement, or you need some tough love, it's your network that guides and inspires you to become the best possible version of you. I believe you need at LEAST three mentors - one who has achieved what you seek, one who understands your current life situation, and one who will kick your butt when you need it (and we all need that sometimes). Look for ones with character, competence, compassion, communication, and commitment.

Building strong relationships with your managers is essential for becoming a better leader. These relationships serve as a foundation for trust, collaboration, and mutual support, enabling you to navigate challenges, drive results, and foster a positive work environment. By cultivating meaningful connections with your managers, you gain valuable insights, guidance, and mentorship that contribute to your growth and development as a leader. Furthermore, strong relationships with your managers enhance communication, alignment, and teamwork, enabling you to effectively lead your team towards shared goals and objectives.

Building relationships with your managers requires intentionality, authenticity, and effort. Start by demonstrating your commitment and dedication to your work, showing initiative, and delivering results consistently. Take the time to get to know your managers on a personal level, showing genuine interest in their backgrounds, interests, and perspectives. Engage in open and honest communication, seeking feedback and guidance from your managers regularly. Additionally, find opportunities to collaborate on projects or initiatives, demonstrating your willingness to work together towards common goals. By actively investing in building relationships with your managers, you lay the groundwork for trust, respect, and mutual support.

Building relationships with your managers is essential for becoming a better leader. Start by actively listening to their perspectives and seeking feedback on your leadership style and performance. Demonstrate reliability and professionalism by consistently meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work. Show initiative by offering assistance and taking on additional responsibilities when appropriate. Foster open communication by sharing your goals, concerns, and ideas for improvement. Finally, prioritize building trust through honesty, transparency, and mutual respect. By investing in these relationships, you can gain valuable insights, support, and mentorship that will contribute to your growth and effectiveness as a leader.

Maintaining relationships with your managers requires ongoing effort and attention. Stay connected with your managers through regular check-ins, meetings, and informal conversations. Keep them informed about your progress, challenges, and achievements, and seek their input and advice when needed. Show appreciation for their support and guidance, expressing gratitude for their contributions to your growth and development as a leader. Additionally, be responsive to their needs and requests, demonstrating your reliability and commitment as a team member. By nurturing and maintaining relationships with your managers, you strengthen trust, communication, and collaboration within your organization.

To overcome challenges, approach them with empathy, patience, and understanding. Seek to find common ground and areas of mutual interest, focusing on building rapport and trust over time. Communicate openly and transparently about any concerns or issues that arise, and work together to find solutions that meet the needs of both parties. Additionally, be willing to adapt and adjust your approach as needed to address any obstacles or barriers to building relationships effectively. By approaching challenges with resilience and a growth mindset, you can overcome them and strengthen your relationships with your managers in the process.

Measuring the results of your efforts to build relationships with your managers can be challenging but important for assessing progress and identifying areas for improvement. Look for indicators such as increased trust, improved communication, and collaboration between yourself and your managers. Solicit feedback from your managers directly, asking for their perspectives on the strength of your relationship and areas for growth. Additionally, observe changes in your interactions and working dynamics with your managers over time, noting any improvements or challenges that arise. By regularly evaluating the results of your efforts, you can refine your approach and continue to strengthen your relationships with your managers effectively.