Managers are people too: Help them help you

🗣️ “Ugh, my manager is the worst. They don’t even know what I’m working on half the time.”

Before you start asking ChatGPT “how to manage up without losing your mind,” hear me out: Managers are people too.

They’ve got their own to-do lists, their own deadlines, and possibly three other team members asking for promotions this week. But instead of rolling your eyes, let’s talk about how you can help them help you.

Here are 3 themes to keep in your toolkit:

1. 📣 Communication & Transparency

You’re not a mind reader—and neither is your manager.

• Share your priorities, blockers, and progress.

• Don’t wait until things are on fire—flag issues early.

• If you’re drowning in work, say so (preferably before you’ve sunk).

2. 🤝 Collaboration & Proactivity

Treat your manager like a teammate, not tech support.

• Schedule regular check-ins to align.

• When problems pop up, bring a solution or two (it earns you bonus points).

• Be flexible. Plans change, goals shift. Stay adaptable.

3. 🚀 Growth & Relationship Building

Managers want to help you grow—if they know where you’re going.

• Share your career aspirations.

• Ask for feedback—even when it’s awkward.

• Say thank you when they support you. It builds trust (and they’ll remember it).

Managing up isn’t about sucking up—it’s about syncing up.

And when it clicks? Work feels smoother, goals feel clearer, and your manager might just become your biggest cheerleader (or at least stop asking what you do every week).

 🔁 If you’ve cracked the “managing your manager” code, share your tips below!

#Leadership #ManagingUp #WorkHumor #CareerGrowth #Communication #Teamwork #LinkedInTips