Want to know how to get that promotion? Contrary to popular belief, it's not about sucking up to your boss or trying to be their best friend. Here's what the bosses have to say. Follow their tips and your own boss will think you're a real star.

1. Don't ask questions you can answer
"I must get one hundred questions a day - the majority are those that employees can answer themselves. They're just being lazy."

Yes, it's comforting to ask your boss when you lack confidence or feel you need their approval but, next time, ask yourself first: "Will they be able to answer this any better than I can?" In most cases, probably not. You know your job better than anyone else, be resourceful and think things through first.

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2. Solutions, not problems
"It annoys me when people come to me with problems and expect a solution."

Don't go to your boss with a problem if you haven't spent at least 10 minutes thinking of possible solutions. It will impress your boss if you go to them with a tricky issue and then suggest ways to resolve it.

3. Never apologise
"I love it when people take responsibility for their mistakes."

There's a right way to do this. Starting off with an apology makes you look weak. Next time you make a mistake, try this: "I think this project could have been better." or "In retrospect, I think I should have done it differently." or "Next time I would..." Your boss will be impressed and focus on what you've learned rather than what you've done wrong.

4. Don't get emotional
"I cringe at some emails that get sent by people on my team."

Don't ever send an email in a moment of anger or frustration. It's tempting to reply immediately after reading an email that angers or upsets you. Write your response immediately, but don't send it. Wait at least half an hour, then re-read the original email and your response. Nine times out of ten, you will have calmed down and can send a much more constructive and considered response. Your boss will admire your diplomacy.

5. Go beyond the call of duty
"My pet peeve is when people say 'It's not my job.' We all get asked to do things that aren't strictly in our job description."

Take on new challenges. Sometimes, the best way to find your calling is by trying new things. You may well learn something new and your boss will be impressed by your 'team spirit', and remember that you pitched in to help.

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9 ways to get your boss to love you