Final answer:
The statement refers to the role of a supervisor in an employee's career development, highlighting the impact this relationship can have on opening or closing professional opportunities. It underscores the importance of actively maintaining a positive and productive relationship with one's supervisor to facilitate career growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept highlighted by the statement “Your supervisor can open doors for you or make sure they stay firmly closed” emphasizes the significance of the working relationship between an employee and their supervisor. In a professional context, supervisors often have considerable influence over the career progression of their subordinates.
Building a strong, positive relationship with your supervisor can therefore lead to career development opportunities, such as promotions, or could conversely hinder your professional growth if the relationship is neglected or strained.
It is essential to recognize the importance of this dynamic and actively engage in fostering a professional relationship that is beneficial to your career growth. This could involve regularly communicating with your supervisor, understanding their expectations, and demonstrating your value to the organization.
Such proactive steps can help ensure that your supervisor acts as a facilitator for opportunities rather than an obstacle.