In this episode, Niamh explains what 'managing up' means and why it's a vital skill. She provides practical strategies to help you build a better working relationship with your manager by understanding their style and priorities
A good working relationship with your manager is one of the most important factors for your day-to-day work experience, career progression, and long-term job satisfaction. Niamh explains that managing up is not about manipulation or micromanaging your boss. Instead, it's about understanding your manager's goals, work style, and challenges so you can work together more effectively. When done well, it makes both your job and your manager's job easier and takes a lot of pressure off them.
Niamh shares a personal story about a previous manager who was extremely busy and didn't like being micromanaged. She had to change her approach from sending detailed updates to having a longer, monthly one-to-one to get clear on her responsibilities. This experience taught her the value of aligning her communication style with her manager's. She provides four key strategies for managing up: understanding their style, keeping them informed, adapting to their priorities, and being solutions-oriented. By being proactive and taking initiative, you can strengthen trust and respect, which may lead to more opportunities for growth.
Understand Their Style: Ask your manager about their preferred communication style, whether they like detailed reports or quick summaries.
Keep Them Informed: Proactively update your manager on projects and flag any potential issues early.
Align with Their Priorities: Understand your manager's key goals and ensure your work is aligned with them.
Be Solutions-Oriented: When you identify a problem, try to suggest a solution.
Don't Micromanage Your Manager: Managing up is about adapting your work style to complement your manager's, not about trying to control them.
Ask Questions: The best way to understand your manager's preferences is to simply ask them how they like to work.
Offer Support: Notice your manager's pressures and offer to help where you can, such as suggesting a different time for your one-to-one if they have a packed schedule.
Proactive Communication is Key: Keeping your manager informed about your workload and potential risks makes it easier for them to support you.
Take Initiative: Being proactive and solutions-oriented strengthens trust and respect, which can open up opportunities for your career.
Related Episode 7 | How can I improve my one-to-one meetings?
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Welcome to The Better Workday Podcast with your host, Niamh Moynihan. Niamh is the founder of Better Workday. She will challenge you to think differently about how you manage your time, energy, attention and relationships at work to be successful while supporting your well-being.
In each episode Niamh shares new insights and practical ideas to help you create a better workday.
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