Managing Up

Setting Clear Expectations

Are you sure you’re on the same page as your manager?

Part of managing up is ensuring expectations are clear. How can you accomplish this?

Here are a few strategies that you can employ:

Communicate proactively.

Schedule regular check-ins and ask your manager clarifying questions such as, “What does success looks like for you this quarter/year?” or “How will you measure my performance?” Also ask questions that surface the ‘why’ behind any direction you’re given. Make sure to document and share what’s agreed.

Work on building trust.

Provide regular updates on progress and wins. Share challenges, keeping in mind the idea that you’re not just presenting the problem, but describing the situation and recommending solutions. Anticipate your manager’s questions, especially regarding concerns your boss might have to address in their meetings and provide information and answers proactively.

Acknowledge and help your boss manage shifting priorities.

There are a lot of reasons why priorities change in an organization: new top leadership, addressing market needs or entering a new market, changing customer needs. In my blog post, Leading Through Mud, I wrote about how important it is for a leader to know when to forge ahead or find another path. When priorities shift, it will be essential for you to ensure that you and your team aren’t stuck waiting for direction. Discuss with your manager how the changes affect your team and what you plan to do to address the changes. Be willing and prepared to renegotiate your and your team’s priorities.

Setting clear expectations is the foundation of a great working relationship with your manager. Managing up by creating clarity, building trust, and positioning yourself as a leader who delivers results.