The Art of Managing Up: Unlocking Your Product Management Potential
As a product manager, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of meetings, customer calls, and Slack alerts. But neglecting to manage up can have serious consequences when it comes to promotions and bonuses. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of managing up, and provide actionable tips on how to do it effectively.
What is Managing Up?
Managing up is the practice of influencing how your manager works with you and perceives your performance. It’s about taking an active role in nurturing this relationship to ensure your work doesn’t get overlooked or undervalued. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your outcomes but also increase your visibility and opportunities for growth.
Why Managing Up Matters
Managing up is crucial for three key reasons: alignment, risk management, and professional visibility.
- Alignment: Your manager has a different perspective and access to more resources. By communicating with them, you’ll ensure you’re on the same page and have their support when navigating challenging situations.
- Risk Management: Your manager has more experience and can provide valuable insights when making high-risk decisions. By involving them, you’ll tap into their expertise and avoid potential pitfalls.
- Professional Visibility: Managing up helps ensure your achievements are recognized and acknowledged. By keeping your manager informed, you’ll increase your chances of getting promoted or receiving a bonus.
Tactical Tips for Managing Up
So, how can you manage up effectively? Here are six practical tips to get you started:
- Make Your 1:1 Count: Use your weekly meeting to discuss alignment, risk management, and visibility. Come prepared with an agenda and make the most of this valuable time.
- Know When and Where to Ask Questions: Ask thoughtful questions during meetings, and consider compiling them for your 1:1. Avoid confrontational questions and focus on seeking guidance.
- Synthesize Information: Present your findings in a clear and concise manner, showcasing your expertise and ability to interpret data.
- Over-Communicate: Keep your manager informed about your progress, priorities, and challenges. This will help them understand your workload and provide support when needed.
- Follow-Up: Consistently follow up on assignments and communicate with your manager throughout the process.
- Come Up with New Ideas: Show that you can think strategically by proposing solutions that align with company goals. This will demonstrate your ability to take on more senior roles.
Measuring Success
How do you know if you’re managing up effectively? Look for two key indicators:
- Public Recognition: If your manager can publicly highlight your work, it’s a sign that you’re effectively communicating your achievements.
- Strategic Projects: If your manager is assigning you more strategic projects, it shows that they trust your judgment and are willing to give you more autonomy.
By implementing these tactics and measuring your success, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking your product management potential. Remember, managing up is an ongoing process that requires effort and dedication. But the rewards are well worth it.