How to Handle a Manager Who Doesn't Understand IT

If you work in IT Operations, you may face situations where your manager does not understand or appreciate the value of your work. Not every manager is a tech guru, but having a strong and dedicated manager can be the difference between a successful project and a failure. Yet many lack the technical expertise to be able to communicate clearly about small issues that may aris. This can lead to conflicts over priorities, deadlines, resources, and expectations. How can you handle these conflicts in a constructive and professional way? Here are some tips to help you communicate better with your manager and avoid unnecessary friction.

Identify the Root Cause

The first step to resolving any conflict is to understand what is causing it. Is your manager unfamiliar with the technical aspects of IT Operations? Do they have unrealistic or unclear goals for your projects? Do they have a different style or preference for communication and feedback? By identifying the root cause of the conflict, you can tailor your approach and address the underlying issues.

Do not always communicate your issue in its more specific terms. When it comes to technical issues, sometimes being more broad and general can help those working in other specialties or in leadership positions to understand the core issue at play, leading it to be resolved quicker.?

Talk Plain, Not Tech

When dealing with a manager who doesn't understand IT Operations, it's important to communicate clearly, educate them about the basics, and show how IT impacts the business using simple language and examples. Define roles and responsibilities, use data to highlight the value of your work, and act as a bridge between your technical team and your manager. Offer solutions instead of just presenting problems, be patient as your manager learns, and document important conversations. If conflicts persist and affect your team's performance, consider escalating the issue following company protocols.?

Remember, it's about finding common ground and working together to achieve the organization's goals, despite the knowledge gap. It can be hard to be managed or led by someone who seems uneducated in certain technical aspects. Managers have a role to fill just like each developer does, and what weaknesses they have are offset by their strong leadership and communication. Just like the coach of a sports team isn’t necessarily the best athlete, learn to communicate in a way that is constructive, while respecting the roles each position plays in achieving your end goals.

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Use Empathy and Respect

Even if you disagree with your manager, you should always treat them with empathy and respect. Try to see things from their perspective and acknowledge their concerns and challenges. Avoid blaming, criticizing, or dismissing their opinions. Instead, use positive and constructive language and focus on finding common ground and solutions.

Devs are often buried deep in code, obsessed with the minute details of complex code, whereas managers are focused on the macro. A good practice is to clearly set expectations and goals beforehand, so that technical details don’t bog down communication later.?

Explain Your Value and Impact

One of the reasons why your manager may not understand IT Operations is because they do not see how your work contributes to the overall success of the organization. To change this, you need to explain your value and impact in terms that they can relate to. For example, you can use metrics, data, and examples to show how your work improves efficiency, security, reliability, and customer satisfaction. You can also highlight how your work aligns with the strategic goals and vision of the organization.

Educate and Inform

Another way to handle conflicts with a manager who does not understand IT Operations is to educate and inform them about the technical aspects of your work. You can do this by sharing relevant information, resources, and best practices that can help them learn more about IT Operations. You can also invite them to observe or participate in some of your tasks or processes, such as testing, troubleshooting, or deploying. This can help them gain a better appreciation and understanding of your work.

If you’re afraid of being condescending, find simple ways to explain complex ideas. Use analogies and simple terminology to make sure everyone understands the fundamental issues. A good manager will welcome on the job education even while serving as your supervisor, since it helps them do their job better as well. Never assume everyone working for the same company has the same level of expertise and understanding.?

Seek Feedback and Support

Finally, you should seek feedback and support from your manager to improve your performance and relationship. You can ask for regular and specific feedback on your work and how you can meet or exceed their expectations. You can also ask for support in terms of resources, training, or guidance that can help you do your job better. By seeking feedback and support, you can show your manager that you are willing to learn, grow, and collaborate.

Conclusion

Working in IT Operations can be challenging when your manager doesn't understand the technical aspects of your work. However, by following these tips, you can navigate these conflicts in a constructive and professional manner. Remember to communicate clearly, educate and inform your manager, and seek feedback and support.?

To be truly successful in your collaborations, you must understand the roles of others outside of your scope of work. Similar to a coach of a sports team who never steps on the field, even though they are not directly contributing to the technical development of a project, your managers will be a key cog in your team's success. With patience, empathy, and a focus on finding common ground, you can foster a positive working relationship and help your manager appreciate the value of IT Operations.

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