As an employee, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities of your job. But in order to truly excel in your career, it’s important to understand the art of “managing upwards.” Managing upwards refers to managing the relationship between a subordinate and their manager or supervisor. It involves understanding the priorities, expectations, and communication styles of one’s manager, and using that knowledge to effectively communicate, work together, and achieve goals.
Why is managing upwards important?
Managers have a lot of power, and it’s important for subordinates to understand how to work with them effectively. Being aware of managing upwards can help employees build better relationships with their managers, which can lead to more opportunities for advancement, better feedback, and a more positive work environment. Additionally, by effectively managing the relationship with their manager, employees can help ensure that they are working on the right things and that their contributions are valued.
How can you use this concept at work?
To use this concept at work, there are a few key strategies you can follow:
- Understand your boss’s priorities, goals, and expectations: It’s important to understand what your boss is trying to achieve and what they consider to be a priority. This will help you align your own goals and objectives with theirs, and ensure that you are working on the right things.
- Communicate effectively: Understanding your boss’s communication style and adapting to it can help you communicate more effectively with them. Be clear, concise, and proactive in your communication, and keep your boss informed about your work and progress.
- Build a relationship: Building a positive relationship with your boss can help you work together more effectively. Get to know them as a person and understand their perspective. Show appreciation for their guidance and support.
- Show initiative and take ownership: Be proactive in your work, take initiative on projects, and be willing to take ownership of your responsibilities. This will demonstrate to your boss that you are reliable and capable.
- Be open to feedback and willing to learn: Be open to constructive feedback and use it to improve your work. Actively seek out opportunities to learn and grow.
- Be adaptable and flexible: Be willing to adapt to changes in priorities and be flexible in your approach to work. Show that you can handle a variety of tasks and are able to pivot as needed.
- Be a team player: Work well with others and be a positive influence on the team. Show your support for your boss and your colleagues.
- Show loyalty: Show loyalty to the company, your manager and your team, and maintain a positive attitude, even in difficult situations.
Examples of situations in which you can manage upwards:
- When your manager is not aware of a problem you have encountered and you need to bring it to their attention
- When you have a new idea or proposal and you want to present it to your manager
- When your manager is going on a leave and you need to keep them informed about the progress of a project
- When your manager is overloaded with work and you can help them with some tasks
- When you are working on a project, but need a senior level person to help manage or remove roadblocks
In summary, managing upwards is all about building a positive, productive relationship with your boss that helps you work together effectively. By understanding your boss’s priorities, goals and expectations, and communicating effectively with them, you can ensure that you are working on the right things and that your contributions are valued. Remember, managing upwards is not about manipulating or controlling your boss, but rather working together to achieve common goals.