The Art of 'Managing Up'

Managing up is a soft skill centered around using the traits of a good manager to help you bring out the best in yourself as an employee. Understanding the best way to communicate with your boss, demonstrating that you care, meeting performance goals, and more won’t go unnoticed.?When done well, managing up makes your manager’s job and your job easier.

Demonstrating Empathy

Managing up involves showing genuine interest in your boss’s well-being, empathizing with their experiences, and celebrating their achievements.

Providing Feedback

When your boss seeks input on how they can assist your growth, providing candid feedback supports mutual development.

Supporting Career Development

Identifying ways to support your manager's professional growth, such as aiding them in achieving departmental objectives, strengthens your working relationships.

Tailoring Communication

Understanding your manager's preferred communication methods is crucial in managing up. By actively listening and adapting to their communication style, you can effectively convey your needs and concerns.

Displaying Resilience

Maintaining composure during challenging situations and offering your assistance during your manager's stressful periods showcases effective management from below.

Promoting Fairness

Recognizing and acknowledging your manager's fair treatment of team members contributes to a supportive work environment.

Encouraging Innovation

In managing up, fostering a culture of learning from both successes and setbacks demonstrates your commitment to innovation.

Incorporating these strategies into your interactions with your manager can enhance collaboration, foster mutual growth, and contribute to the overall team success. Managing up effectively strengthens your working relationship and promotes a supportive work environment.