Whether you are eying that promotion next year, or whether you just want to be in boss good books, youll surely have to make efforts. Gone are the days when merely buttering up the boss would suffice. Most bosses today demand actual quantifiable work and efforts. They have to, coz your output translates into their output, and they have bosses too, remember?

So here are 10 very practical tips that can help you impress your boss very convincingly. But remember, the focus has to be on you being a good and impressive employee. If you strive only to appear an impressive employee, things wont work in your favor for too long.

Know What Is Expected Of You: You have to be aware of the companys plans & objectives, and how you fit into them. Know your boss priorities and set your priorities accordingly. It helps if you know on what basis you will be evaluated. Upgrade skills and performance accordingly.

Have A Positive Approach: You should never be the one to say this cannot be done or theres no time. You have to be the one that your boss can count on.

Be Proactive: Dont wait for boss to invite you for a brainstorming session. Always try to look for new ideas and innovative ways to improve efficiency and performance of the department. If you improve the functioning of the department, you make your boss look good. And he/she is bound to notice.

Be organized and punctual: Showing up late for office in general, and for meetings specifically is the worst mistake that you can make. Always try to arrive for meetings before your boss does. Plan your day and the tasks you expect to wrap up in the day. Set goals and prioritize for every single day.

Keep Yourself Updated: You should be aware of what is happening around you, in the world and in your industry. You should also keep your skills updated. Make full use of company sponsored education and training courses. If you work in the IT sector, this becomes even more important.

There are more tips, but we are saving them for the next article in the series, just in case you get too bored. Meanwhile, try to incorporate these suggestions into your work life and youll see the results for yourself.