When it comes to career success, one term that often gets thrown around is “managing up.” But what does it really mean? Managing up is all about actively and thoughtfully engaging with your supervisor in a way that benefits both parties. It’s about using your self-awareness and relationship management skills to build a strong connection with your boss, ultimately leading to career growth and success.
Managing onward and upward takes this concept a step further by strategically managing your interactions not only with your direct leader but also with others within the organization. By creating win-win situations, being authentic, and demonstrating loyalty, you can pave the way for upward mobility and career advancement.
Successfully managing up involves understanding your leader’s strengths, weaknesses, and priorities, and adapting your approach accordingly. It also requires empathy, putting yourself in your boss’s shoes and considering their perspective when making decisions.
I recently came across an insightful article from UC Merced that emphasizes the importance of managing up in the workplace. The article highlights how supervisors are human too, with their own strengths and areas for growth. Building a strong relationship with your supervisor can have a significant impact on your career and overall job satisfaction.
So, what are some things that successful managers do to manage up effectively? Providing options and cause-and-effect scenarios when requesting decisions, adapting communication styles to align with their leader’s preferences, and advocating for their leader in meetings are just a few strategies.
Approaching managing up with openness and transparency is key. Showing support for your boss, checking in on their well-being, and making their job easier are all ways to strengthen your relationship and demonstrate your commitment to their success.
In the end, managing up should lead to a collaborative and productive working relationship that benefits both you and your leader. By cultivating a sense of ease and synergy in your interactions, you can set yourself up for success and advancement in your career.
