In this article, Research Consultant Harry Thomson explores ways that you can develop your ability to manage up in order to progress your career and strengthen your relationship with your manager.
As you progress in your career, knowing how to “manage up” becomes increasingly important. However, it is crucial to note that managing up is not about playing office politics. It is about building a solid relationship with your manager so you both can achieve your goals. For those in mid to senior level roles, mastering this skill can enhance your influence, open new opportunities, and make your work life run more smoothly. Below I have provided some tips that might help you improve at managing up.
Understand What Drives Those Above You
To genuinely support those above you, you need to know what they’re aiming for and the challenges they’re facing. You need to align your work with their goals. Ensure your projects help those above you achieve their objectives; this shows you are thinking strategically. You should also anticipate their needs – try to figure out what they might need before they ask you for it. This demonstrates that you are proactive and engaged.
Keep Communication Open and Adapt to Their Style
Good communication is the backbone of any strong working relationship. Keep them informed about what you are working on, any setbacks, and your successes. Being transparent builds trust. Communicate with them by using their preferred methods – consider whether they prefer email updates over more frequent meetings, for example.
Bring Solutions, Not Just Problems
When issues arise, do not just present the problems to your manager. Come up with possible solutions which highlight that you are a problem-solver and can handle challenges. This could also allow you to collaborate with your manager to develop strategies, which indicates that they value your input.
Build Trust and Credibility
Your manager needs to know they can rely on you. Meet your deadlines consistently and aim to exceed expectations when possible Ensure that you keep your promises and be someone your manager can count on.
Set Clear Expectations
Avoid misunderstandings by ensuring everything is clear. Ensure sure you know what is expected of you. Check in with your manager to ensure you are focusing on what matters most.
Offer Constructive Feedback
A good working relationship is a two-way street. Share your thoughts respectfully when you see areas for improvement, but frame your feedback in a way that is helpful and aims towards shared goals.
Take Initiative
Show leadership by going beyond your job description. Identify opportunities to contribute more to your team or the organisation, such as volunteering to head up initiatives that align with company goals.
Think Strategically
Being able to see the bigger picture adds significant value. Knowing how your work fits into the company’s overall objectives is crucial and can help you offer ideas that could benefit the company in the long term.
Respect Their Time
Your manager is busy, so make the most of the time you have with them. Have an agenda for meetings and stick to the main points; address the most important matters first (but don’t forget the little things!).
Conclusion
Managing up is all about proactively improving your relationship with your manager. By understanding their goals, communicating well, and building trust, you will become a valuable partner in achieving success. Give these tips a try, and you may find your professional relationships and opportunities growing.
For a confidential discussion on your talent attraction and retention strategies / requirements, please contact Harry Thomson at Livingston James: [email protected].
Effective Strategies for Managing Up
In this article, Research Consultant Harry Thomson explores ways that you can develop your ability to manage up in order to progress your career and strengthen your relationship with your manager.
As you progress in your career, knowing how to “manage up” becomes increasingly important. However, it is crucial to note that managing up is not about playing office politics. It is about building a solid relationship with your manager so you both can achieve your goals. For those in mid to senior level roles, mastering this skill can enhance your influence, open new opportunities, and make your work life run more smoothly. Below I have provided some tips that might help you improve at managing up.
Understand What Drives Those Above You
To genuinely support those above you, you need to know what they’re aiming for and the challenges they’re facing. You need to align your work with their goals. Ensure your projects help those above you achieve their objectives; this shows you are thinking strategically. You should also anticipate their needs – try to figure out what they might need before they ask you for it. This demonstrates that you are proactive and engaged.
Keep Communication Open and Adapt to Their Style
Good communication is the backbone of any strong working relationship. Keep them informed about what you are working on, any setbacks, and your successes. Being transparent builds trust. Communicate with them by using their preferred methods – consider whether they prefer email updates over more frequent meetings, for example.
Bring Solutions, Not Just Problems
When issues arise, do not just present the problems to your manager. Come up with possible solutions which highlight that you are a problem-solver and can handle challenges. This could also allow you to collaborate with your manager to develop strategies, which indicates that they value your input.
Build Trust and Credibility
Your manager needs to know they can rely on you. Meet your deadlines consistently and aim to exceed expectations when possible Ensure that you keep your promises and be someone your manager can count on.
Set Clear Expectations
Avoid misunderstandings by ensuring everything is clear. Ensure sure you know what is expected of you. Check in with your manager to ensure you are focusing on what matters most.
Offer Constructive Feedback
A good working relationship is a two-way street. Share your thoughts respectfully when you see areas for improvement, but frame your feedback in a way that is helpful and aims towards shared goals.
Take Initiative
Show leadership by going beyond your job description. Identify opportunities to contribute more to your team or the organisation, such as volunteering to head up initiatives that align with company goals.
Think Strategically
Being able to see the bigger picture adds significant value. Knowing how your work fits into the company’s overall objectives is crucial and can help you offer ideas that could benefit the company in the long term.
Respect Their Time
Your manager is busy, so make the most of the time you have with them. Have an agenda for meetings and stick to the main points; address the most important matters first (but don’t forget the little things!).
Conclusion
Managing up is all about proactively improving your relationship with your manager. By understanding their goals, communicating well, and building trust, you will become a valuable partner in achieving success. Give these tips a try, and you may find your professional relationships and opportunities growing.
For a confidential discussion on your talent attraction and retention strategies / requirements, please contact Harry Thomson at Livingston James: [email protected].
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