Managing Up: Understanding Your Boss's Work Style

In this strategic episode of @Work Style, host Don Carter tackles one of the most critical yet rarely taught workplace skills: effectively managing up. As the founder of MatchJack, Don shares insights on how to identify and adapt to your manager's DiSC style to create more productive relationships and advance your career. Don reframes what "managing up" truly means—not manipulation or politics, but a proactive approach to working with your boss that benefits both parties. Drawing from his HR executive experience, he explains how understanding your manager's communication and decision-making preferences can reduce workplace friction and transform you from just another employee to a valued team member. The episode breaks down the four DiSC styles in management: D-style boss: direct, decisive, results-focused leaders valuing brevity and confidence i-style boss: enthusiastic, expressive leaders prioritizing relationships and collaboration S-style boss: supportive, steady leaders valuing reliability and methodical approaches C-style boss: analytical, detail-oriented leaders appreciating thorough analysis and precision Don offers adaptation strategies for each style, from structuring communications to presenting problems in ways that resonate with your manager's preferences. He addresses challenging style combinations and provides techniques for bridging significant gaps between styles. The episode includes success stories, including one about "Michelle," a talented professional repeatedly passed over for promotion until she adapted her communication style to her D-style director—resulting in both promotion and recognition as a key team member. Whether you're struggling with a difficult boss relationship, starting a new position, or simply want to enhance your workplace effectiveness, this episode provides actionable strategies to speak your boss's language without compromising your authentic self.