Managing Up

Managing up isn’t brown-nosing. It’s leadership in every direction—including above you.

New managers often think leadership is just about guiding their team. But your success depends just as much on how well you manage your relationship with your boss.

That means:

• Anticipating what they need before they ask

• Keeping them informed without overloading them

• Framing issues with solutions—not just problems

• Aligning your priorities with theirs (and the business)

• Making their job easier without losing your own identity

Managing up isn’t manipulation—it’s collaboration.
Done well, it builds trust, increases your influence, and opens doors for growth.

And for managers who want to elevate their careers, it’s non-negotiable.