In the fast-paced world of modern business, managing up is a crucial skill that can set you apart from the crowd. Not only does it help foster a healthy working relationship with your supervisor, but it also positions you as a trusted resource who anticipates needs and solves problems. Let’s explore the concept of managing up and how you can master it to become the MVP of your workplace.
What is Managing Up?
At its core, managing up is about adopting a client-service mindset and being supportive of your supervisor in a way that strengthens your relationship. It’s all about understanding their needs, being proactive, and positioning yourself as an indispensable asset.
Why is Managing Up Important?
Effective communication in the workplace is critical for success, but managing up takes it a step further. By understanding and anticipating your supervisor’s needs, you can help reduce their stress, improve team efficiency, and create a more harmonious work environment. Plus, it’s a surefire way to fast-track your own career progression.
Here are some top tips from our trainers to help you excel in managing up:
1. Adopt a Client-Service Mentality
Think of your supervisor as your internal client and focus on these four key areas:
- Empathy: Understand and appreciate your supervisor’s perspective and challenges.
- Add Value: Consistently find ways to contribute to your supervisor’s success.
- Transparency: Keep communication open and honest.
- Stay Coachable: Be receptive to feedback and willing to adapt.
2. Remember, Supervisors are People Too
It’s easy to forget that supervisors and senior colleagues are just human. They make mistakes, face challenges, and strive to serve clients as best as they can. A little empathy goes a long way.
3. Understand Your Supervisor
To be a valuable resource, it’s essential to understand your supervisor’s behaviors, preferences, goals, and anxieties. What matters most to them? What keeps them up at night? By grasping these aspects, you can better support their needs.
4. Practice Transparent Communication
Transparency is key to effective communication. Focus on these three areas:
- Be Proactive: Provide information before it’s asked for or needed.
- Be Clear: Be succinct and specific in all communication. Remember, “bottom line up front.”
- Know When to Ask: Seek approval or guidance before straying too far from the original assignment. Understand how your supervisor prefers to be communicated with.
—
Managing up is more than just a buzzword—it’s a powerful strategy for building strong relationships, enhancing workplace communication, and driving success. By adopting a client-service mindset, showing empathy, understanding your supervisor, and practicing transparent communication, you’ll become an invaluable asset to your team.
Looking to take your managing up skills to the next level? Book a call to learn about how the services we can provide for you and your team!
