Attitude is key for National Boss Day plans

Tuesday is National Boss Day. We know what you're thinking. Don't go there.

Instead, think about how tough your boss has it. No, don't think about their salary. We said don't go there.

Forget the company car and the reserved parking space, too. No comparisons allowed. After all, it's good for you to have to hunt for a spot, especially in August when your air conditioning's not working. Develops those strong survival skills that will come in handy when the layoffs hit.

You also might want to think about a gift. Something fitting that you can afford with your 2 percent raise.

OK, maybe we have the wrong attitude. So we'll turn to someone who apparently has a better one, or at least one that won't get you fired.

DJ Mitsch, cofounder and president of The Pyramid Resource Group (www.pyramidresource.com), an executive coaching firm in Cary, offers these suggestions for improving your relationship with your boss:

* Understand your job is to help the boss win. Focus on doing a great job and explain to him or her that you understand the importance of success.

* Listen for their best intentions. If your boss is delivering bad news, ask questions to better understand what it is that he or she needs. Help him or her build context for what should be communicated to others.

* Tell the truth, as you see it, in a neutral way. Your boss wants to know what you think, even if there is resistance at first. You are not being paid to sit on your hands. If you have an idea about how to help the company improve, share it.

* Schedule a time to meet if your boss doesn't schedule it for you. Take a note pad with you, an update of your work, and anything else you want to boast. Be brief in this meeting. If you schedule 30 minutes, take 15 and give time back.

* Bless your boss on your way to work. Visualize a great meeting or communication exchange before you get to the office and manifest that throughout the day.

* Stop gossiping, especially about your boss. It always gets back and usually without your context and intentions. Learn to turn away from the negative discussions people tend to spend too much time participating in.