What is "Managing Up" and why is it important?
"Managing Up is a powerful strategy for optimizing your relationship with your manager, improving work efficiency. Although some consider that investing time in getting to know your manager better is a distraction from important tasks, this practice can be a significant savings of effort in the long run. By understanding your manager's priorities and adapting your communication, you can perform your tasks more efficiently and facilitate the achievement of positive results in your team.
What are some practical examples of Managing Up?
Implementing Managing Up in your day-to-day is easier than you think. Some strategies include:
- Proactively contacting your manager when you need specific help.
- Keeping your manager informed about the status of projects, especially in the face of delays or roadblocks.
- Arranging meetings at times that are convenient for your manager.
- Support his or her priorities when you have free time.
How can you use the journal to improve your Managing Up practice?
Throughout the course, it is suggested that you use a journal to document your findings about your communication style and that of your manager. This will help you deepen your learning and more effectively apply the techniques discussed. The journal also contains summaries of key concepts and additional resources to enrich your knowledge.
Why is it essential to identify your manager's leadership style?
Understanding your manager's leadership and communication style allows you to improve your interactions and align your objectives more effectively. It is crucial to know who the person in the leadership position is in order to apply the Managing Up technique correctly. Whether you have recently started working with your manager or have been doing it for years, it is always a good time to start this exercise.
How to classify your manager's communication style?
For this purpose, it is recommended to use the PCSI (Personal Coaching Style Inventory) system, which identifies four communication styles:
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Managerial style: characterized by speed in thinking and acting, concentration on actions, objectives and results. Although this style implies natural leadership, it also presents challenges such as impatience and low tendency to delegate.
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Presenting style: These people know how to enjoy life, are energetic and optimistic. Although they enjoy communicating and motivating others, they may have difficulty closing projects and managing time effectively.
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Mediator Style: Mediators are good listeners and enjoy helping others. They focus on team harmony and avoid being the center of attention, which can make it difficult to give negative feedback.
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Strategic Style: Focuses on details, analytical evidence, and communicates with precision. Although they value process over outcome, they tend to be afraid of error and avoid major changes.
Why is it vital to know the limitations of each communication style?
Each style has its strengths and weaknesses. By knowing the areas where your manager needs more support, you can focus your efforts to facilitate their work and optimize the working relationship.
How to apply what you have learned about communication styles?
Once you have identified your manager's style, write it down in your journal and reflect on how you can adapt your interactions to improve communication and increase your influence in the workplace. If you do not yet have a manager, practice with a hypothetical case. Sharing your findings and experiences in the course comments can enrich the learning of the whole group.
What are the benefits of identifying your manager's communication style?
By adapting to your manager's particular style, you achieve more effective communication and increase your ability to influence. This translates into a more collaborative work environment and a more precise alignment of personal and professional objectives.
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