Your Mgr is rooting for you

Do you twitch when a "call me" text comes in from your sales manager?

Try not to jump to conclusions…it’s probably something simple. But, you’re right, they should have written, "call me to discuss the ACME account."

Remember, you share responsibility for maintaining good communication with your manager. If you don’t want "call me" texts, explain to your manager why.

The more you communicate with your manager, the more relationship equity you’ll create.

To have a better relationship with your manager, take the initiative. Today, schedule a lunch for you two at a tablecloth restaurant. Don’t go to Chipotle. You need space for this kind of lunch.

Send your agenda ahead of time; managers don’t like surprises, and they appreciate sellers who respect their time and come prepared with strategic thinking.

Most importantly, don’t drop piles of dung on their doorstep. Bring a few possible solutions and walk your manager through your thinking.

Do that a few times each year, and your manager won’t feel like a manager.

Do you want harmony and mutual respect with your manager?? Of course you do!

To get there, you must limit drama and emotion from your relationship…and from the work day.

For perspective on workplace trust, watch Harvard Business School professor Frances Frei in this fantastic TED Talk.