10 Solid Ways to Create a Good Working Relationship with Your New Boss

Updated April 2023

It’s always a little awkward getting to know a new boss. When you work remotely, it can be even more challenging. Everyone dreams of enjoying the benefits of working from home every day, but most people tend to overlook the social challenges created by working with a geographically diversified team. Don’t let your virtual setup prevent you from building a good working relationship with your new boss.

Here are 10 Solid Ways to Create a Good Working Relationship with Your New Boss:

1. Show Up on Time.

This is a big one in the business world and when you work remotely, it’s even more important. Since your boss can’t see you, it’s important you show up on time, ready for work. Don’t spend all morning in the shower or doing chores. Get up and get ready for work, just like you did when you had to get in the car and drive to the office. Then, when it’s time, sit down and be at work.

2. Practice Good Communication.

Maintain open, frequent communication with your boss. When in doubt, it’s better to give more information than requested. The last thing you want to do is tie up your manager’s time by going back and forth in an email because you failed to provide enough information. Give as much information as you can up front to prevent email ping-pong. Ask clarifying questions before you start working on a project, and continue to provide updates throughout the assignment.

3. Don’t Make your Boss Look Bad.

When a new employee fails to meet the company’s performance expectations, the organization’s higher-ups don’t look at the new hire as much as they look to the hiring manager. While you are not your boss, you are a direct reflection of them. Don’t create negative feelings by putting your manager in the position to defend hiring you. Ask questions to ensure you understand exactly what is expected of you.

4. Act Professional.

Emailing back and forth all day or chatting on instant message can open the door for a less than professional conversation. Always use complete sentences and speak as you would at the office. This will leave a positive impression with your boss.

5. Build Trust.

When you say you’re going do something, do it. Don’t make excuses. If you’re going to miss a deadline, be honest and tell your manager as soon as possible. If you consistently miss deadlines or have an excuse for everything, your manager won’t have confidence in you, which could lead straight to the unemployment line. Trust is imperative in any remote work relationship.

6. Ask for Feedback.

Ask your boss how you’re doing. Let them know you’re open to constructive criticism and want to improve the areas where you’re weak. Any boss worth their salt will appreciate being able to be open and honest with feedback. Your boss has a lot to teach you; they wouldn’t be in the position they’re in if they didn’t. Ask for advice, and then listen to it. When you work remotely, this is an essential piece of your working relationship.

7. Provide Quality Work.

What better way to make your manager look good than by providing them with exceptional work? Don’t let outside influences affect the quality of your work. If you’re providing you manager with reports, give yourself plenty of time to read through everything to check for errors before sending it out.

8. There Will be Disagreements.

In any working relationship there are going to be times you when you won’t agree with your boss. It’s okay to voice your opinion in a respectful way, but keep in mind, your manager has the final say. They likely have information you are not privy to. Accept that your manager is in charge and let it go. It doesn’t do either of you any good to hold a grudge.

9. Show Some Respect.

Showing respect is as simple as being considerate to your manager and their point of view. In the beginning, it may be hard to establish feelings of respect. If that’s the case, keep in mind you don’t have to know someone to respect their position.

10. Show Interest in Your Manager.

Simple questions like “How was your weekend?” go a long way to creating a good working relationship. Interject little things about yourself from time to time, so that your boss knows you’re human, too. Who knows, you might end up having something in common. Just be careful not over-share.

Building a good working relationship with your new boss is crucial to your success in your role and your overall job satisfaction. By implementing these ten strategies, you can establish a positive rapport with your boss and create a strong foundation for your professional relationship. Remember to communicate effectively, show initiative, seek feedback, and be respectful of your boss’s time and priorities. By demonstrating your value and commitment to the organization, you can earn your boss’s trust and respect, and set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career.

What things do you practice to keep a good working relationship with your boss? Connect with Virtual Vocations on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to tell us about the telecommute job you want. We’d love to hear from you!