Your working relationship with your boss is critical. However, many people make the mistake of ceding all responsibility for clear lines of communication to their supervisor. Bad move.

Any number of things can get in the way. Your boss may be new to being a boss. He may not be the best manager the world has ever seen. He may be overworked and dealing with an understaffed team. He may be on the road much of the time and removed from day to day office operations. The list goes on...

It's in your best interest for the two of you to be communicating effectively, and it's up to you to step up to the plate to make it happen.

Don't assume your supervisor knows you're doing a good job. In fact, don't assume your supervisor knows exactly what you're doing!

Following are three good reasons to make sure you're communicating well:

It could mean more money in your pocket

Want to give yourself a better shot for a decent raise when performance appraisal time rolls around? Make sure your supervisor knows what you've accomplished. (It really can be that simple.)

It could save your job

Maybe your company is feeling the pinch from the economic downturn. Consolidations, mergers, managed redundancy, staff cuts - any one of those may be on the horizon. You'll have a better shot at riding out tough times and sparing your job if your boss - and her boss - are aware of contributions you've made to the company's bottom line.

It could make you more effective

(And more effective can also translate to more dollars in your pocket via a raise or eventual promotion.) If you haven't established clear communications with your boss, which includes setting expectations and regularly reporting back regarding your progress, then how can you be sure you're on the same page with her? You could be putting in 12 hour days and working yourself to the bone - on projects that she doesn't feel belong on the front burner.

Make sure you're communicating well with your boss. You can do things to remedy this if you're not, and you'll benefit if you are.

Rebecca Metschke helps professionals seeking a competitive advantage in today's global economy. Her book The Interview Edge is available online in downloadable format. You can find free info on career strategies and other helpful tips and advice at The Interview Edge blog http://blog.theinterviewedge.com/.