This article was originally published on ComeRecommended.com.

Did you know Wednesday, October 16 is National Boss Day? Sometimes we don’t take enough time to appreciate what our bosses do for us. In some circumstance, we may not even have great relationships with our bosses. No matter how you feel about your boss, celebrate National Boss Day by taking steps to improve your relationship. It can really only benefit you.

Here are 10 ways to improve your relationship with your boss:

1. Communicate more effectively. Ask questions when you’re unsure and speak up when you need something in return.

2. Treat them like a person. Yes, you need to respect your boss as someone who is in charge at work, but you need to remember they are a person, too. When appropriate, make conversation with them about things other than work. They’ve got other things going on in their lives. Just remember to respect their personal space, too. Find balance.

3. Say “please” and “thank you.” It’s amazing how much a relationship can improve when you’re simply more polite. Remember this whenever you interact with your boss. A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Maybe even wish them a “Happy National Boss Day!”

4. Listen. It’s really annoying when you’re trying to communicate directions or goals to someone who is obviously not fully invested in the conversation. When you’re talking to your boss, make it a point to listen actively.

5. Admit your mistakes. When you do something wrong at work, and you know it was your fault, don’t make up lame excuses. Own up to your mistakes, apologize, and move on. Your boss knows nobody is perfect, and they’ll be more accepting of your apology if it’s not followed by a “but…”

6. Pick your battles. If your boss does something you don’t agree with, don’t complain unless it’s a really big problem. When you constantly complain to your boss, they’ll start to resent you as an employee. Choose the battles that are really important to you. With everything else, find a way to deal.

7. Go above and beyond. One way to step up and impress your boss is to take more initiative. When you’re finished with your assignments, ask for more to do. Don’t just wait to be sent a request. Show you can be more efficient with your time at work.

8. Avoid gossip. Coworkers who gossip about each other at work create a lot of problems for their bosses. When conflict ensues, it will always be traced back to the gossiping employees. Make it a point to stay away from gossip and you’ll stay on your boss’s good side.

9. Accept feedback. Bosses have bosses too. They have to report to someone who gives them feedback on your team’s work. They accept it and pass on the message to you and your coworkers. It’s important to accept feedback when your boss gives it to you. It’s not personal, it’s just part of the job.

10. Solve problems. If you can solve problems, whether they’re related to your work or your coworkers, you can save your boss a lot of time. Bringing problems to them adds more stress to their day, and they won’t appreciate you for it. Never only bring up a problem — always have a solution on hand.

It’s important to build a solid relationship with your boss because they will be more likely to help you achieve success in your future. There are lots of other ways to improve your relationship. It all comes down to respect and courtesy. Show you value their leadership and, in turn, they will value you as a member of their team. Keep these ideas in mind, not just on National Boss Day, but every day of the year.

What steps have you taken to improve your relationship with your boss? Will you try something new to celebrate National Boss Day?