by Matt Bird

Created on: May 21, 2010

Have a boss that's tough to please? Or at least seems that way? Chances are good you're just not going about it properly. The key to getting ahead at work is making that person above you happy, and if you do you may find yourself in their shoes one day. Not a bad prospect, since they probably make more than you.

The first step, then, is to find out exactly what they want from you - and the easiest way to do that is to ask questions. Whether they say as much or not most management types like to be asked questions, as they can then clarify their desires and ensure the job is done right. Take a pad of paper along to jot down notes so you won't have to ask the same question twice, as the same query over and over makes you look like a dolt.

Alternatively, you can ask other people in the office what the boss prefers. Choose someone who's been around for a while and knows the ins and outs of the workplace. And, once you're done talking to them, ask someone else the same questions. And again. And again. That way you'll know you're getting accurate information and be able to put together work in the most favorable way possible.

Beyond this, here are some general tips that should appease any boss, no matter their role or temperament:

- Get your work done on time. Deadlines are set as they are for a reason. Employees who consistently adhere to deadlines are the good guys in a boss's mind. It's the people who skimp out on work that wind up with menial tasks, or even looking for a new job.

- Look for more work when yours is running dry - or even when it isn't. Somebody who can juggle multiple tasks at once will appear much more impressive to management. Besides, you're making their life easier - and every boss can appreciate such a sentiment.

- Get to work on time. You may even want to get to work BEFORE the boss, so you're the first thing they see when they enter the office. Don't be shy about remaining an extra half hour or so after work to get pressing jobs done, as well.

- Become a regular social fixture. Turn into that friendly face the boss can talk to. You don't necessarily need to become a friend, just a point of exchange the boss can rely on when they need a break. Looking for common areas of interest - hobbies, family, political views, that sort of thing - can quickly and easily turn this point into a reality.

- And, last, pitch in wherever you can. Help your co-workers, clean up the office, volunteer during office social functions and so forth. Get your name out there and get people liking you. The boss will promote people who work well in a team, and someone who's universally well liked by the rest of the cast is much more likely to snag that promotion.

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