Managing Up, Up, and Away!
We’re instilled with the belief early on that we can accomplish anything as long as we work hard, work long, and work to deadline. However, in this more service-oriented work environment, understanding and incorporating the thought processes of those above you is just as important to the future of your career your own production.
If you are one of our clients or candidates you have heard this from us on an ongoing basis. Relationships are the fuel powering every day transactions. Developing alliances throughout your firm, not just your direct departmental contacts, will provide you the support you need to learn and master the political climate that you’ll navigate. But the most powerful and influential compatriot to have on your side is your boss. By understanding your boss’s point of view, as well as assimilating it into your style, you are signaling to them that you’re ready for advancement. What will come across is that you have the ability to think and strategize beyond your current position.
This is the process of Managing Up.
Here are some helpful questions you can ask yourself to assist yourself into isolating what exactly is imperative to your boss:
- What details does your boss pay attention to first and foremost?
- What is expected from the people in positions you want to move into?
- What questions do they ask of their direct reports and why?
- What is their leadership style and how do they make decisions?
- By which methods do they prefer to be informed of status updates (email, phone, in-person, etc.)?
- How does your boss’ management style differ from yours? And what can you utilize in your own dealings?
The last query is the most critical. The real test to pass for the promotion you desire is if you are flexible and perceptive enough to adapt to your boss’ needs. What is important here is to remember that it is your job to develop a relationship with your boss, not the other way around, while demonstrating to them that you have the ability to function at a higher level...
…their level!
