Want to become your boss’s favorite employee?
It only takes 75 seconds each week.
(No, this is not a joke. Keep reading, and I’ll show you how.)
The Problem
When I started my career, I completely overlooked the importance of updating my boss mid-project.
Turns out, I’m not alone. Most people think that any update for your boss needs to be super buttoned up. 25 slides! 9 killer insights! Presentation rehearsed 7 times!
But no, that’s not helpful if it takes you 3.5 weeks to get it done.
Here’s the truth: Bosses like to know what’s going on, even if there’s nothing big to report.
And those little updates can quickly make YOU your boss’s favorite employee.
(Yes, even more favorite than the guy who brings donuts every Friday.)
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The Big Small Thing
Take 75 seconds each week and send a “mini update” to your boss on a project.
Example:
Subject: Mini Update on Project ____
Hi Boss! Quick update on Project ____. While we’ll cover the major updates in our live meeting with the group, I wanted you to know everything is tracking along smoothly. We’ve a) gotten the customer feedback, b) are compiling it, and c) are already excited about the insights we know will come out of it. More from us soon!
(And yes, I timed what I wrote. It took 75 seconds.)
If your boss sends you a note that says, “Hey just checking in about Project ____,” you’re too late!
Your “mini update” could have easily avoided that.
But, ahhhh, when you invest in this 75 second “mini update,” you are GOLDEN and your boss thinks you are the best ever.
Note: Even if you have a weekly one-on-one meeting with your boss, there is something special about the proactive, short email update on a specific project. You’ll have plenty of stuff to cover in your meeting, and you can reiterate your progress there too.
You want your boss to be thinking…
Look at Jimmy always keeping me in the loop even when there’s nothing that mind-blowing to share! He’s always so on it. I never have to worry about whether he’s on top of his work. That makes my life so much easier as a manager, because I don’t have to stress and constantly follow up.
Think of “mini updates” as little project crumbs that keep your boss satisfied and informed.
Your boss likes the whole cookie, but they’ll also like tasting the crumbs along the way.
And the last thing you want is for them to go hungry.
How This Helps You Chase What You Want
You want to advance in your career. Your boss is one of the people who can help.
“Mini updates” make you look proactive, like a good project manager, and like you’re good at comms (three highly desirable skills).
So, stop waiting for perfection.
Your boss doesn’t need a Broadway production. They just need a quick update.
By investing just 75 seconds each week, you’re setting yourself up to win the “Favorite Employee” award—and make major advancements in your career.
