10 Things Your Boss Won't Tell You

Ask yourself, “Would I want my boss to read this?” every time you post on a social media site, suggests Edith Onderick-Harvey, president of corporate consulting firm Factor In Talent. “Be careful about how much you share about your weekend or what a jerk [you think] your coworker is,” she urges. ON WOMAN'S DAY: What HR Won't Tell You

Like ’em or not, office politics matter. “What your manager won’t tell you is that what may be even more important than completing tasks and following directions is your ability to work with her and your coworkers,” says Onderick-Harvey. Even if you’re getting the job done, if your coworkers find you to be abrasive, rude or just unpleasant, it will be hard for your boss to promote you.

Patty Briguglio, president of MMI Public Relations in Raleigh, North Carolina says, “I like having an employee who isn’t afraid to show her personality,” she says. “I don’t want someone to just fill a spot at a desk.” If you want a promotion, ask for it, says Briguglio. ON WOMAN'S DAY: Companies With Great Perks

“Dress every day as though it’s possible you’ll be called into the company president’s office for a meeting,” urges former business manager Sue Thompson, a consultant and speaker with Set Free Life Seminars. Even though your manager has more important things to focus on than your clothes and your business etiquette, if you fall short in either category you’re just asking not to be promoted.

If you’re not sure whether your boss prefers to communicate in a meeting or via e-mail or phone, ask, suggests career and executive coach Lauren Mackler. Also ask what she wants to be consulted on and what she prefers you handle on your own. And take cues from her personality, says Mackler. If your boss is introverted, don’t keep pushing for face-to-face time.

“Most employees bring up problems and expect the boss to solve them,” laments Jennifer Prosek, CEO of consulting firm CJP Communications. “The employees who stand out are a part of the solution.” If you’re struggling with a project or a client and aren’t sure what to do next, present your boss with three possible options — she’ll appreciate that you’re thinking ahead.

“[Performance reviews] are just as painful for your boss as they are for you,” says Daniel Debow, co-CEO of Rypple, a web-based feedback tool. “But you can help make them easier.” Keep track of your successes as they happen, suggests Debow. You should also try to connect with your boss regularly throughout the year — not just on review day.

Whether you’re running late or botched a big-time project, don’t try to push the blame elsewhere. “I can’t promote you if you refuse to accept the blame when you mess up,” says Deborah Becker, the owner of a State Farm Insurance agency in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. “The phrase ‘I’m sorry. It won’t happen again,’ goes a long way.” ON WOMAN'S DAY: Office Etiquette Rules

If you make your boss look and feel good, you’ll reap the rewards, promises Stefanie Smith, head of executive consulting and coaching firm Stratex. Generally, your boss is the one doing the encouraging and nurturing, but you can turn the tables to your advantage. Compliment your boss in front of other people, suggests Smith. Just be sure to keep your kind words sincere — and brief.