Kissing up the boss
The best way is being around. Be with the boss as much as possible. Help him in addressing his insecurities. Match your communication style with the one of your boss. Use her favorit phrases, quote him in meetings. Watch out for rivals who also go for this strategy. Help him by finding out what your boss’s goals and priorities are. What problems is he struggling with? What pressure is higher management putting on him? What accomplishment would make your boss a hero in the eyes of his immediate superior? Ask only those questions that he is able and willing to answer, especially in public. Ask his opinion on personal matters, just to show you respected his judgement. Forget the legend of meritocracy.