How To Have The Perfect Relationship With Absolutely Everyone...

Be a better colleague (this afternoon)

A few changes in the workplace can make a big difference, according to Domonique Bertolucci.

"Whilst it's true the most important relationshipyou'll have is with yourself, your relationship with your boss comes pretty close. As a success coach, my clients tell me what they think of their boss, delivering a long list of their failings. But when it comes to career success, what you think of your boss doesn't matter as much as what he/she thinks of you.

So what's the fastest way to improve your relationship? See yourself through their eyes. Do you anticipate the boss' needs, support your colleagues and come up with solutions, or are you competitive, quick to put others down and always complaining about things you don't like? You might have an idea about making your monthly reporting process more efficient or decide to take more responsibility in team meetings. It doesn't matter what it is - show your initiative and enthusiasm and you'll be top of the 'promotion' list.

Before I became a coach I worked in the corporate sector where I had to manage large teams of people, navigate organisational politics and resolve petty squabbles, all while keeping my boss happy. The members of my team that were mo9st valuable were the ones who made life easiest. Not easy in a 'lay down and play dead' kind of way, but by meeting my expectations, supporting the team objectives, offering suggestions, and recognising that I was human, too. One of ny colleagues always offered to bring me back some lunch when she was out getting hers, not because it was her job, but because she knew that I might not get a chance to eat at all if she didn't. Small gesture, but it had a big impact."

Domonique Bertolucci,

Newwoman, May 2008