In this episode of Network Effect, host Brian Colburn discusses the underappreciated yet invaluable skill of managing up. The episode covers how to build strong and effective relationships with leaders by understanding their goals, being proactive, asking thoughtful questions, and maintaining reliability. It highlights the importance of effective communication and staying authentic while engaging with authority figures. By mastering these skills, listeners can position themselves as valuable partners and open doors to new opportunities. Brian also offers a special gift package meant to enhance professional networking, available through show notes.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:16 Special Gift for Listeners
01:12 Understanding Managing Up
03:32 Building Trust with Leaders
05:03 Effective Communication Strategies
06:29 Staying Authentic in Leadership Relationships
07:55 Key Takeaways and Conclusion
08:40 Next Episode Preview
Links
GIFT - https://netwrok-effect.now.site
Transcribed by Descript*
Hello and welcome back to Network Effect, where I help you transform relationships into opportunities.
I'm your host, Brian Colburn.
Today we're talking about a skill that's as valuable as it is underappreciated managing up.
But before we get started, I have a gift for you. The show notes have a link titled Gift. Visit the link, fill out the form, and I'm gonna send you an email to my professional networking course, podcast events, calendar, and relationship management tool, using Notion.
If you don't have a Notion account, you'll be able to sign up for a free account. There's a link for that in the email, and then you'll be able to download. This entire package that I've put together for you all in one place inside of Notion, I think you're going to enjoy it if you already have a CRM and utilize your calendar properly, you won't need portions of it, but you'll be able to get everything else that's there built for you.
I'm doing this because I want you to succeed in your networking journey, and this is gonna set you up for success out of the gate.
Onto today's episode, whether it's your boss, a mentor, or a senior connection in your network, managing Up is all about building strong, effective relationships with people in leadership positions.
It's about understanding their goals, aligning your efforts with their priorities, and creating a partnership that benefits both of you when done right.
Managing up does more than make you stand out. It builds trust. Strengthens your influence and positions you as a valuable contributor.
In today's episode, we're gonna cover what it means to manage up and why it's essential for networking, strategies for building trust and understanding with leaders how to communicate effectively and align with their goals. And lastly, tips for staying authentic while managing relationships with authority figures.
By the end of today's episode you'll feel confident in your ability to connect and collaborate with leaders in a way that drives success for both of you. Let's dive in.
We're gonna start with what managing up means and why it's vital in networking.
At its core, managing Up is about creating productive and positive relationships with people in positions of authority, whether that's a direct manager, a mentor or even a senior level contact in your network.
It's not about being a yes person or trying to impress them at every turn. It's about understanding their needs, priorities, and challenges, and finding ways to align your contributions to help them achieve their goals.
Here's why. Managing up matters in networking.
It builds trust and credibility. When leaders see that you understand their goals and you're actively working to support them, they're more likely to trust you and view you as a reliable partner.
It positions you as a leader, managing up shows initiative and strategic thinking. You're not just completing tasks, you're anticipating needs and finding ways to add value.
And lastly, it opens doors. Strong relationships with leaders can lead to mentorship, sponsorship, or even opportunities for advancement with your network.
When you manage effectively, you build a relationship and create a partnership that benefits both sides.
So. How can you build trust and understanding with leaders in your network?
Here's some strategies to get you started.
Number one, understand their goals and priorities. The first step in managing is understanding what matters most to the person you're working with. Are they focused on hitting specific targets, growing their team, or solving a particular challenge?
Once you understand their priorities, you can tailor your efforts to align with their objectives.
Number two, be proactive. Don't wait for them to ask for something. Anticipate their needs and take action. For example, if you know they're preparing for an important meeting offered to help gather data or create materials in advance.
Number three, ask thoughtful questions. When building a relationship with someone in a leadership role, asking the right questions can help you gain valuable insights. Questions like, what are your biggest priorities right now? Or, how can I best support you? Show that you're invested in their success.
And number four, be reliable. Consistency is critical. If you commit to something, ensure you deliver on time and at a high standard, reliability builds trust and strengthens your reputation.
Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, and managing up is no exception. When you show leaders that you understand their goals and can be counted on you create a solid foundation for collaboration.
Next, let's focus on communicating effectively and aligning with their goals.
Leaders are busy and their time is valuable. Here's how to communicate in a way that makes an impact.
Number one, keep it concise. Get to the point quickly, whether it's an email, a meeting, or a casual conversation, highlight what's most important and save the details for when they ask.
Number two, frame your suggestions around their goals. When presenting an idea or solution, connect it directly to their priorities. For example, instead of saying, I think we should try this new tool, say, this tool could save the team time and help you meet your deadline for X project.
Number three, use data and evidence leaders appreciate well-informed suggestions. If you're making a case for something, back it up with data, examples or results that support your point.
And number four, listen and adapt. Pay attention to how they communicate. Do they prefer detailed reports or quick summaries? Do they value brainstorming or expect fully formed solutions?
Tailor your communication style to align with theirs.
Effective communication is about clarity, alignment, and adaptability. When you communicate with leaders in a way that resonates with them, you strengthen your relationships and increase your impact.
Finally, let's talk about staying authentic while managing relationships with authority figures.
One of the biggest misconceptions about managing up is that it requires changing who you are. However, authenticity is crucial. Leaders can sense when someone is insincere and it undermines trust.
Here's how to stay authentic while building these relationships.
Number one, be yourself. Bring your unique skills, personality, and perspectives to the table. Leaders value authenticity because it fosters genuine connections.
Number two, set boundaries. While supporting leaders is essential, saying no when necessary is okay. For example, if you're at capacity with your workload, be honest and suggest alternative solutions rather than overcommitting.
Number three, stay true to your values. Managing up doesn't mean agreeing with everything A leader says, share your thoughts respectfully and constructively if you have a different perspective or see a potential issue.
And number four, focus on collaboration, not flattery. Building a relationship with a leader isn't about praising or winning their favor. It's about creating a partnership where both parties can thrive. When you approach managing with authenticity and respect, you create relationships that are not only productive, but also meaningful.
Let's recap today's key takeaways.
Managing Up is about creating productive relationships with leaders by aligning your efforts with their goals and priorities.
Build trust and understanding by being proactive, asking thoughtful questions and consistently delivering on your commitments.
Communicate effectively by keeping it concise framing suggestions around their goals and using data to back up your points.
And stay authentic by being yourself, setting boundaries, and focusing on collaborations rather than flattery.
When you master the art of managing up, you position yourself as a valuable partner and open doors to new opportunities within your network.
Next time we're diving into leveraging storytelling and networking. In our final episode, episode 20.
We'll, explore how to craft and share compelling stories that resonate with your network, make you memorable, and create deeper connections.
If you've ever struggled with how to make your elevator pitch or personal brand stand out. This episode will give you tools to captivate any audience.
Thank you for joining me today on Network Effect, where I help you transform relationships into opportunities. If you're finding value in this series, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share the podcast with someone who may benefit in your circle.
Until next time, keep connecting. Keep growing. And remember that managing up isn't about power, but partnership.
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