Simple (yet effective!) ways to endear yourself to your boss

47576345_MNo one wants to be known as the office brown-noser, but being the boss’s favorite isn’t necessarily such a bad thing, either. Here are a few tips to get you up the ladder of favorability while gaining allies along the way.

Watch and learn. Some bosses love constant feedback; others detest it. Some bosses love face-time with their employees and some would be happy never seeing anyone. Your first job is learning your boss’s likes and dislikes. Stay open-minded, as those likes and dislikes could be the opposite of what you’re used to.

To infinity and beyond. One of the best ways to earn some love is to go the extra mile. Volunteer for the little things, and ask your coworkers if there’s anything you can do for them. Even though you’re not helping your boss directly, word will spread.

Gain the indispensable skill. Right now your team needs a skill that nobody has and everybody thinks they’re too busy to learn … but not you. No matter what the skill is, you can find online courses, mentors and books to help you. Once you’re the master, your team, and your boss won’t be able to live without you.

Fix it first. You know you’re not perfect and so does your boss. You can go from average employee to outstanding employee by fixing your problems first. Admit your faults, and look for what you can differently. When your boss confronts you about mistakes, apologize and say what you’re already doing to ensure it never happens again.