Managing up is the practice of proactively working with your supervisor or manager to build a strong and productive working relationship.
-
Adapt Your Style: Learn your manager's communication preferences, goals, priorities, expectations, and decision-making processes. Adapt your approach to align with your manager's style.
-
Build Trust: Cultivate a positive working relationship based on trust, respect, and open communication. Deliver quality, be reliable, and demonstrate a proactive and collaborative attitude.
-
Communicate Clearly: Keep your manager informed about your work progress, challenges, and any support you want.
-
Align with Goals: Gain a clear understanding of your manager's and the organization's goals and priorities. Align your work and objectives with those goals to demonstrate your commitment.
-
Anticipate Needs: Keep aware of upcoming projects, deadlines, and potential challenges. Take initiative to offer assistance, suggest solutions, or provide relevant information before being asked.
-
Seek Feedback: Request feedback from your manager on your performance, strengths, and areas for improvement. Act on it.
-
Manage Expectations: Clarify expectations about deliverables, deadlines, and quality standards. Discuss any concerns or constraints that affect your ability to meet expectations.
-
Be Solutions-Oriented: When facing challenges, come prepared with potential options. Demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
-
Foster Collaboration: Foster relationships with your colleagues. Seek opportunities to work together and support each other.
-
Continuously Develop: Take ownership of your professional development. Keep improving your skills and knowledge. Seek opportunities to learn and grow.