10 ways to impress your manager

Want to know how to get that promotion? Here's what managers have to say. Follow these tips and your own manager will think you're a real star.
 

1. Go beyond the call of duty

We all get asked to do things that aren't strictly in our job description. Managers don’t like to hear “it’s not my job.” You should take the initiative to make things better. There are always projects that others don't have time to do. Find one that you can do and volunteer to do it. Your manager will appreciate it and remember it in the future.
 

2. Come up with ideas

Make positive, constructive suggestions for how things could be done better.  Don’t be shy about putting your ideas forward. Most managers welcome this and it will show them that you are someone who can think about the bigger issues.  
 

3. Be proactive

Pick one or two of the best ideas you have suggested to your manager and follow through with them. Your manager will not only admire your innovative thinking, but the initiative you've taken to make them happen.
 

4. Maintain high personal standards

Small things like good timekeeping, not chatting too much, low absence and being well organised all add up in the long run and make a very positive impression.
 

5. Demonstrate team spirit

Managers usually dislike dealing with team issues, so don't be afraid to share your team ideas, especially if they can help increase productivity or make someone's job easier. Your manager will be impressed by your 'team spirit' and will remember that you pitched in to help.
 

6. Show a wider understanding of the business

An understanding of the wider business, trends and issues shows enthusiasm and motivation for the company and it’s much easy for managers to work with motivated employees.
 

7. Be enthusiastic

If you want to be noticed and given more responsibility then appear enthusiastic, even if you don’t feel it. Take an interest and get involved in things that are going on around you. Offer to help anyone who’s struggling and look for things that need doing.
 

8. Don't ask questions you can answer

It is comforting to ask your manager when you lack confidence but, next time, ask yourself first: "Will they be able to answer this any better than I can?" In most cases, they probably can’t. You know your job better than anyone else so be resourceful and think things through first.
 

9. Solutions not problems

Do not go to your manager with a problem if you haven't spent at least 10 minutes thinking of possible solutions. It is far more impressive if you go to them with a tricky issue and then suggest ways to resolve it. Problem-solvers get promoted. Complainers who expect their manager to solve all their problems don't!
 

10. Ask for and give feedback

If there is something that your manager does that you like, tell them. Something as simple as saying "I appreciated your support in that meeting" will improve your working relationship with your manager.

This is a guest post by Nikki, founder of My CV & Me.