🔝 Managing Up: How to Build a Better Relationship with Your Boss

Think you can’t influence your relationship with your manager? Think again. Managing up isn't about manipulation or flattery—it’s about understanding how to work *with* your boss in a way that makes both of you more effective.

Whether you report to a hands-off leader or a micromanager, these practical tips will help you align better, reduce friction, and grow your career in the process.

🎯 Set Clear, Aligned Goals

Work with your manager to clarify expectations. Go beyond vague objectives—ask how your work connects to the bigger picture. Include both tangible goals (e.g., hitting revenue targets) and intangible ones (e.g., improving team collaboration).

Try this: Ask directly, “What else would you like me to accomplish beyond my current role?”

📬 Keep Them in the Loop

Don't let your boss wonder what you're doing. Provide regular updates—even brief ones. A weekly email, a project tracker, or a quick 10-minute catch-up can build trust and reduce micromanagement.

💬 Match Their Communication Style

Some managers prefer face-to-face chats, others like Slack messages or emails. Pay attention to how they respond—and adapt. Your message is more likely to land when delivered in their preferred format.

🎯 Help Them Look Good

Find out your manager’s KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). Are they under pressure to hit retention rates, project delivery times, or client satisfaction scores? Contribute in ways that support their success, not just yours.

🗣️ Ask for Feedback

Don’t wait for formal reviews. Periodically ask, “Is there anything I should be doing differently?” This shows initiative and signals you're open to growing.

🔍 Always Be Honest

Even if the news is bad—deliver it. Managers hate surprises. Being transparent about challenges builds credibility. Better to flag a risk early than scramble to fix something that’s blown up.

🧠 Bring Solutions, Not Just Problems

If you have to raise an issue, offer a possible solution. It shows critical thinking and ownership. Even if your suggestion isn’t used, you’ll be seen as proactive rather than negative.

🤝 Don’t Point Fingers

Take accountability. When things go wrong, avoid blame. Stay professional, especially when talking about peers. If asked for input, give constructive feedback—not gossip or personal attacks.

☀️ Stay Optimistic (But Grounded)

A steady, positive attitude stands out. Especially when stress levels rise, your calm optimism can make you someone your boss depends on. But don’t sugarcoat—be realistic and solution-focused.

📌 Real-World Tip

One participant in our Managing People course shared how a weekly “snapshot” email with bullet points on priorities and blockers helped rebuild trust with a boss who previously seemed distant. Within two months, communication improved—and micromanagement dropped.

🧪 Quick Self-Assessment

Find Out Your Leadership Style – Are you a collaborator, a driver, or a visionary? This free tool gives you insight into your natural tendencies and how they impact your relationships—including with your boss.

📚 Related Resources

• 📘 Lead, Motivate & Inspire – Leadership Skills Training Package
• 📘 Managing People – Management Skills Training Package
• 📄 Find Out Your Leadership Style – Free Self-Assessment