“To make a great relationship with your manager, you need to cultivate a good working relationship,” says Rachael Simmons, a Firstline Editorial Advisory Board member and head receptionist at Veterinary Surgical Specialists in Spokane, Wash. She offers these tips to pave the way for a strong partnership:

1. Always show respect. Listen to what your manager is saying. Follow through.

2. Communicate effectively with others. Act as a empathetic, well-spoken cushion between your doctors, your clients, and your managers.

3. Know what’s going on. Be a team player, and don’t be afraid to communicate. It’s OK to talk to your manager if you have a problem.