Mastering the Art of Managing Up

Summary In this episode, Jacqueline Twillie discusses the concept of managing up, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, proactive problem-solving, and self-advocacy in leadership. Through the story of a fictional character named Jordan, she illustrates key lessons learned in navigating workplace dynamics and building trust with managers. The episode also addresses handling vague feedback and the significance of visibility in one's career. Jacqueline encourages listeners to take ownership of their professional narrative and to actively engage in their career development. Takeaways Managing up is about influence, not office politics. Clear and concise communication is crucial for updates. Proactively sharing information reduces micromanagement. Building trust involves solving problems before they escalate. Visibility in your work is essential for career advancement. You must advocate for yourself to be recognized. Managing up requires creativity and strategy. Regular check-ins can help establish better communication. Ask open-ended questions to gain clearer feedback. You are responsible for defining your relationship with your manager. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Managing Up 02:18 Jordan's Story: The Importance of Communication 06:05 Proactive Problem Solving and Building Trust 09:21 Owning Your Voice and Leading Without a Title 12:15 Visibility and Advocacy in Your Career 15:16 Navigating Feedback and Communication Challenges 17:58 Building Relationships with New Managers 18:51 Reflection and Application of Managing Up Strategies Keywords managing up, leadership, communication, proactive problem solving, visibility, self-advocacy, feedback, relationship building