November 9: Strategies for managing your manager
Transform your working relationship with your manager by making use of these three tips.
Source: Wes Kao
Published: October 2021
Strategies for managing your manager
Have you had communication snafus with your supervisor? Wes Kao, cofounder of Maven and altMBA, suggests learning how to manage your manager to transform your working relationship for the better.
How do you manage a manager?
Tip #1: Offer solutions, not problems
Instead of talking only about an issue, present the issue with a possible solution. This shows you are proactive.
Tip #2: Make requests, not complaints
Instead of saying, “I’m burning out,” suggest taking a vacation and asking which dates work best. This puts your needs in a positive light.
Tip #3: Keep your boss in the loop
Offer to submit regular updates on each project you’re working on. This keeps communication lines open and your boss doesn’t have to micromanage you.
Tip #4: State your intention. Don’t request permission.
Using proactive language with your manager conveys initiative and thoroughly completed staff work during which all the questions have been considered and answered.