You probably have preferences on how to get certain things done, and so does your boss. You might not always see eye to eye with the person you report to, but ultimately, you should look for ways to simplify life for your boss.

In fact, Liz Kislik, a management consultant and executive coach, says that a big part of employees’ jobs is making their boss look good. This isn’t always easy if you’re working with a boss who is especially particular about things.

If you could use some guidance on how to work with a boss who may have difficult quirks, read on. We share Kislik’s thoughts on how to work with different types of bosses in this issue of Promotional Consultant Today.

The boss who wants you to ask for guidance. Your boss wants you to succeed, but they also appreciate when you ask them what they think. They want you to acknowledge all the possible problems of a project or a task and come to them for their help. This type of boss wants you to ask them for specifics on how to do something, so ask.

The boss who could use some kind words. Everyone likes to be commended for their work, and your boss is no different. According to Kislik, this type of boss likes for their employees to observe their skillfulness and then offer praise so they can feel good about what they’re doing. These bosses are smart, but they like for their employees to recognize their talents.

The boss who focuses mostly on financial goals. This type of boss wants to immediately know how something ties into meeting or exceeding their targets. Kislik says that if you must address an issue that does not have a direct, positive impact on numbers, point out the lack of connection but ask for their trust in you. Bring up past evidence of how you have supported their goals in the past.

The boss who wants everyone to get along. Your sales team should work well together, but conflicts will inevitably arise sometimes. When working with this kind of boss, show how you are trying to bring people together, suggests Kislik. And when you are requesting something from your boss, show how your request will benefit the entire team.

The boss who doesn’t like risks. Some bosses are more open to risks than others. If you work with one who is particularly risk-averse, Kislik advises being open about potential risks so that your boss doesn’t have to find the risks you have not addressed. Be sure to clearly explain how you have taken the risks into account and how you plan to mitigate them. You might also ask your boss if they have had experience with any risks you haven’t seen yet.

You might enjoy a productive and harmonious relationship with your boss. But if you don’t, consider the points above to help you adapt to your boss’ preferences and working style.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Liz Kislik is a management consultant, executive coach and facilitator who contributes frequently to publications such as Harvard Business Review and Forbes.