Managing Up – An Important Workplace Skill

An important work skill that is not sufficiently emphasized is “managing up” to your supervisor and others. This requires an eagerness to advocate for yourself, ensure that key information is effectively communicated, and awareness of one’s role in the business/organizational success. 

It is important to get to know your boss as a person, building a relationship and trust. Consider your boss’s perspectives, try to walk in their shoes, and anticipate their needs. Be sure, too, that there are no surprises – managers hate it when they find out about problems from others when their own staff should have told them first.  And when there are problems, be ready to offer possible solutions. Be sure to communicate success stories, too!

Get to understand the boss’s work style, what kind of communications, info, etc. he/she likes, trying to adapt your style to meet the boss’s preferences. Does your supervisor like emails or prefer that you pick up the phone or come by in person?  What time of day is your manager most likely to be available?  Does the boss want lots of details or is a good summary preferred?

When necessary, challenge your boss in a planful, diplomatic way, but pick your battles. While this can be challenging, the best leaders welcome constructive feedback from their direct reports. Try, too, to make the boss look good to his/her boss.

For those in formal leadership positions, communicating “up the chain” is an important leadership responsibility. It is important to share both successes and concerns, as well as assertively advocating for the staff you supervise.

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!