Managing Up – How to Build Better Relationships with Your Boss and Grow Your Career

Let’s be honest: managing your boss probably isn’t on your job description. But it might be one of the smartest things you can do for your career.

What Is “Managing Up” Anyway?

It sounds a bit corporate-y, doesn’t it? But “managing up” is really just about working well with your manager—understanding their goals, their challenges, and figuring out how you can support them while still growing yourself.

It’s not about sucking up, being fake, or playing politics. It’s about being intentional in the way you communicate, take initiative, and build trust.

Whether you’re in a team of five or part of a big organisation, the way you relate to your boss can shape:

• Your visibility

• Your opportunities

• And even your job satisfaction

  
  

Because let’s face it: when the relationship with your boss is off, everything feels harder. When it’s working? You’ve got a real partner in your corner.

How to Actually Do It (Without Feeling Weird)

1. Learn What Matters to Them

Managers are people too. They’ve got their own pressures, KPIs, deadlines, and stakeholders. If you can figure out what they care about, you can align your work with what matters most.

💬 Ask questions like:

• “What’s top priority for you right now?”

• “What does a win look like for our team this quarter?”

• “Is there anything I can take off your plate?”

  
  

Simple questions. Big impact.

2. Adapt to Their Style

Some bosses love a good chat. Others just want bullet points. Some want regular updates; others prefer a monthly catch-up.

Pay attention to how they operate—and meet them there. You don’t have to change who you are, but tweaking how you show up helps build smoother communication.

If they love clarity, avoid rambling. If they like context, don’t skip the details.

3. Don’t Just Bring Problems—Bring Options

Your manager likely hears a lot about what’s not working. If you can bring a potential solution—or even a couple of ideas—you stand out.

Try:“We’ve hit a snag with X. I’ve got two ideas on how we could tackle it. Happy to hear your thoughts.”

You’re showing initiative, but still including them in the decision-making.

4. Be Consistent

You don’t need to be perfect. But you do need to be reliable. Do what you say you’ll do. Own your mistakes. Keep them in the loop—especially when something’s gone off-track.

That’s what builds long-term trust.

5. Respect Their Time

Most managers are spinning multiple plates. Make your meetings count. Be clear on what you need. If something can be solved in a quick email, don’t book a meeting. If it needs a proper chat, give it space.

Go in with one key question or decision. Don’t make them dig for the point.

Different Workplaces, Different Tactics

Startups

Founders want fast thinkers who take initiative. Be hands-on, bring ideas, and don’t wait for permission to solve problems.

Corporates

There’s more structure. Know the chain of command and respect the process. Help your boss look good up the ladder by doing your part well.

Public Sector & Nonprofits

Mission matters. Tie your work back to purpose and outcomes. Help your manager show impact to stakeholders, not just outputs.

What Not to Do

• Don’t assume your boss knows what you’re doing—they’re busy. Keep them in the loop.

• Don’t try to change their personality. Work with it.

• Don’t just nod along—good managers want your perspective.

• Don’t let resentment build—talk about expectations if things feel off.

  
  

Managing up isn’t about bending over backwards. It’s about building a strong, respectful working relationship where you understand each other and work towards the same goals.

The best teams aren’t just made up of top-down directives. They’re built on trust, initiative and mutual support—from all directions.

So… maybe it’s time to stop waiting for your boss to be better—and start managing up like a leader.