Hi all, I'd like to seek advice on book recommendations related to “upward management” (i.e. managing your boss). In my past work experience, I have encountered different types of bosses, and I'd like to spend some time to learn how to improve upward management. Please let me know if you have any recommendations!
Hi there,
I have a consulting guide which includes a bit of this. I also have a write-up I received long ago about “getting monkeys off your shoulder” so to speak.
I would personally say, Upward Management is something I'd be cautious of reading about. It feels like “How to Win Friends and Influence” people by Dale Carneige.
Reading how to interact with people tends to end up not translating well into the real world (it feels forced/tacky).
Rather, if you can get good mentorship/guidance on this in real life, that's the best way to go! (Ask your peers, even ask your boss, observe those around you, etc.)
Stay away from books , its an ocean!
Find talks by Simon Sinek and Dan Pink on this subject. Put it into practice in the field, learn by observation, ask colleagues/peers on the boss's style and expectations. There isnt a one size fits all approach- humans are complicated and unpredictable specially in the high pressure Consulting environment.
One of the best ways to manage your boss is to produce top quality work, build great relationships at work, come across as joyful. People get talking, word gets to your boss and they start trusting you more and more.
Allow yourself enough time for this..months and not days. You will get better with time.
Hello!
I think it´s a great question tbh, and I don´t have the answer unfortunately. However, I personally don´t fully trust these materials in this very social science aspect, in which culture for instance is a key aspect usually not discussed. Best is learning by doing -tough I know this really doesn´t add you any value in this answer, sorry :/
Cheers,
Clara
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