‘Managing up’: how to manage your relationship with your boss more intentionally

Managing up is a collaborative approach to working with your boss to achieve mutual goals. It involves understanding your boss's needs and priorities, and working together to ensure both you and your boss succeed. 

Here are some tips for managing up:

  • Understand your boss: Learn about your boss's communication style, work style, and preferences. 
  • Be proactive: Anticipate your boss's needs and address potential issues before they arise. 
  • Communicate: Keep your boss informed about your progress, challenges, and successes. 
  • Be reliable: Build trust by being consistent, honest, and reliable. 
  • Be helpful: Offer to help with tasks when needed. 
  • Share your goals: Communicate your career goals to your boss and work together to develop an action plan. 
  • Be aware of organizational priorities: Stay informed about the priorities of senior-level leaders and the CEO. 
  • Avoid pitfalls: Avoid things like habitual bargaining, loose talk, and stealing your boss's thunder. 

Managing up can help you build a strong relationship with your boss, gain their support, and advance your career. It can also make your manager's job easier. 

 ‘Managing up’: how to manage your relationship with your boss more intentionally - image 1 - student project