How to build a good working relationship with your new boss

Q My manager has been replaced by someone else. How do I hit it off with my new boss?

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A As a starting point, trust is essential for a constructive relationship between managers and those they oversee, says Assistant Professor Shereen Fatimah of Singapore Management University.

"When there is trust between managers and employees, it increases their commitment and willingness to cooperate," says Prof Shereen, who studies topics such as motivation in the workplace.

Workers who wish to start this new working relationship on a good footing can begin with seeking to understand what is important to the new manager. This includes the strategic goals the manager is looking to achieve, changes the person has in mind to implement, and resource constraints.

Then, workers can propose suggestions that address these topics, says Prof Shereen.

"Keep in mind, however, to frame these suggestions using a positive tone — for example, as ideas for improvement or growth.