What do you do if you want to strengthen your support network within your organization, including your boss?

1 Build Trust

To strengthen your support network, start by building trust with your colleagues and boss. Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship and is earned through consistency, reliability, and integrity. Show up on time, meet deadlines, and follow through on your promises. Be honest in your communications and take responsibility for your actions. When people trust you, they're more likely to support you and advocate on your behalf within the organization.

2 Know Values

Understanding the core values and goals of your organization is key to aligning yourself with its vision. This alignment not only helps you contribute more effectively but also demonstrates to your boss and colleagues that you are a team player committed to the company's success. Engage in conversations about the company's direction, show enthusiasm for its mission, and actively participate in initiatives that promote its values.

3 Offer Help

Offering help to your colleagues is a powerful way to strengthen your support network. It fosters goodwill and shows that you're a collaborative team member. When you assist others with their projects or share your expertise, you create a positive reputation that encourages others to support you in return. Remember to be genuine in your offers of help; people can sense when gestures are purely self-serving.

4 Seek Feedback

Actively seeking feedback from your boss and peers is a proactive way to improve your performance and show that you value their opinions. Constructive criticism can be a gift that helps you grow, so approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. By embracing feedback, you demonstrate humility and a commitment to personal and professional development, which can strengthen your relationships.

5 Communicate Well

Effective communication is essential in building and maintaining strong relationships within your organization. Keep your boss and colleagues informed about your work and progress without overwhelming them with unnecessary details. Practice active listening, which involves fully concentrating on the speaker, understanding their message, responding thoughtfully, and remembering the conversation. This shows respect for their ideas and fosters a supportive network.

6 Network Smartly

Networking within your organization shouldn't be limited to formal events or meetings. Look for informal opportunities to connect with colleagues from different departments. Lunch breaks, company social events, or even quick chats by the coffee machine can be excellent opportunities to build rapport. Show genuine interest in others' work and share insights about your own projects when appropriate. Smart networking can expand your support network beyond your immediate circle.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?