Do these 5 things to “manage up”
Listen. Pay attention to what senior leaders are talking about, and learn what is important to them and why. What keeps them up at night? What problems are they trying to solve? It could be creating a culture of cost discipline, improving employee engagement, deepening connections with the community, or raising funds. Understanding their priorities can help align your thinking and position you as a partner for success.
Act like an owner. Consider all that matters to them. Put yourself in their shoes (and mind) and then act in a way that shows you are modelling the behaviours that are consistent with their priorities. If they're focused on revenue, dedicate effort to sales. Striving for engagement? Organize a team event (and be sure to include the leaders!). And if reducing costs is a priority, show them you're thinking like a leader in how you're making smart spending decisions.
Align your message. This doesn't mean you have to agree with everything they think and say. In fact, leaders truly appreciate when others challenge their ideas. Aligning your message means that you should position your arguments around their priorities. For example, if you're trying to get approval for another FTE role on your team and their priority is increasing market share, show them the ROI in that FTE as it relates to sales. It's all about being audience-centred.
Be prepared for a “no.” Remember that whether they action your idea (or not), you’ve demonstrated leadership simply by bringing strategic ideas up the ladder. Avoid being just a subject matter expert who hides behind facts and data. Instead, become known as an ideas person, and you'll be invited to more senior tables.
Invest in the relationship. Like all relationships, up the ladder ones take intentional effort. If you don't yet have an established relationship with your senior leader, today's the day to reach out and ask for a 30-minute coffee. Once the relationship is established, it's your job to keep it going. Be sure to book reoccurring meetings and ensure your time together is of value to you both. Bottom line: It’s easier to get time with and influence those with whom you have an established connection.