If you are not on the top yet but would like to be, you should pay attention to things every boss wants to hear. Let us help you with a few examples that may put you on the right track.
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"I have a solution to our problem." This is most probably the most important sentence you may say. Nobody loves problems, everybody loves the solutions. Maybe it spectacular, maybe is not, but bringing a solution to the table is always better than "Boss, we have a problem..." And if you can come up with a simple solution that saves time and money, great, that's it!
Bonus tip: If you must present a problem, don't say "Boss, we have a problem..." Instead, say "Boss, we in our department have a problem..." Be straight and say who has a problem. Don't try to convince your boss that he also has a problem because the only person with a real problem will be you.
"I wanna learn more." If you have time, ask around are they any courses or some other form of additional education you could use to learn more and expand your skills. That will show that you like your job and respect your company, and that you want to bring more skills to the table.
Bonus tip: Be free to step in other department's field of work. If you are in the production, go and do some education for accountants, for example. But don't go too far asking your boss to pay kite flying course if you don't want to fly out of his office.
"I have an idea how to boost employees' morale" Now, that's a powerful one. If you know how to create an easy, jolly atmosphere in the office, then you have a capability every good top manager has: the ability to manage people well. That shows that you have soft skills and they are an essential tool if you want to lead a company.
Bonus tip: Good morale boosters are always good ideas that cost nothing. So, don't ask for any outside help - and spending. You must do everything on your own, without any company's resources spent. And no, beer after work with guys, doesn't count. It must be in the office. Not beer, fun. ■