How to "Manage" your Manager

Managing your manager involves understanding their expectations, communication style, and preferences, and then aligning your work and interactions accordingly. This not only makes your work life smoother but also prepares you for future managerial roles. Here are some strategies to effectively manage your manager:

1. Understand Their Expectations

- Clarify Goals and Priorities: Regularly ask about the main goals and priorities. Ensure you understand what success looks like from their perspective.

- Set Clear Objectives: Work with your manager to set clear, measurable objectives. This ensures that you are both on the same page about what needs to be achieved.

2. Communicate Effectively

- Adapt to Their Style: Some managers prefer detailed reports, while others like brief updates. Observe their preferences and adapt your communication style accordingly.

- Regular Updates: Provide consistent updates on your progress. This keeps them informed and reduces the need for them to check in frequently.

- Be Proactive: Anticipate their needs and address potential issues before they arise. This shows initiative and can build trust.

3. Build a Strong Relationship

- Show Respect and Appreciation: Acknowledge their guidance and express appreciation for their support.

- Be Trustworthy: Build trust by being reliable and consistent. Meet deadlines, follow through on commitments, and maintain confidentiality.

4. Seek Feedback and Act on It

- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to discuss performance and seek feedback.

- Be Receptive: Accept feedback positively and take action to improve. Demonstrating that you can grow from feedback is crucial.

5. Manage Up

- Offer Solutions, Not Just Problems: When presenting an issue, also suggest potential solutions. This demonstrates problem-solving skills and reduces their workload.

- Highlight Achievements: Ensure your manager is aware of your accomplishments and contributions. This can help during performance reviews and when discussing career development.

6. Understand Their Pressures and Constraints

- Empathize with Their Challenges: Understanding the pressures and constraints your manager faces can help you be more supportive and aligned with their needs.

- Be Patient and Flexible: Be patient with their decisions and flexible with changing priorities. This shows that you are adaptable and supportive.

7. Professional Development

- Learn from Them: Observe their management style, decision-making processes, and how they handle challenges. Use these observations to inform your own future managerial approach.

- Seek Mentorship: If possible, seek mentorship from your manager to gain deeper insights into effective management practices.

8. Conflict Resolution

- Address Issues Constructively: If conflicts arise, address them constructively and professionally. Focus on solutions rather than blame.

- Maintain Professionalism: Always maintain a professional demeanor, even in challenging situations. This sets a positive example and can help de-escalate conflicts.

By understanding and aligning with your manager’s expectations and communication style, you can create a productive working relationship that benefits both parties. This approach not only makes you a valuable team member but also prepares you for future leadership roles by teaching you the intricacies of managing work relationships effectively.

By Timothy Chase

Property Manager

Brilliant Property Management

https://brilliantproperty.ca/