Managing Up 101: Learn to Speak “Boss”

Part 2 of 5 in our Managing Up Challenge for Leaders: How to Become a Boss Whisperer and Win Buy-In for Your Ideas

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“I saw your comment in the release notes, but I wasn’t sure what you wanted done. Should I tone down the e-commerce note or delete it altogether?”

My boss’s response? “Yes.”

Clear. As. Mud. 

I’ve changed details to maintain privacy, but this is a true interaction I had at a previous workplace. 

Maybe you can relate? Perhaps you’ve even brought what you saw as a slam-dunk proposal to your boss’s desk, only to get a lukewarm response – or worse, a flat “no.” 

You don’t need to have perfect ideas to get buy-in from your boss, but you will need to become a Boss Whisperer (like the Dog Whisperer, but better). This requires understanding what motivates (and frustrates) your boss and how they prefer to receive information. Once you crack this code, you’ll find yourself getting more green lights and fewer roadblocks. 

Without further ado, let’s dive into Day 2 of your Managing Up Challenge!

• Day 1: Anticipating Your Boss’s Needs 

• Day 2: Winning Buy-In by Understanding Your Boss (You Are Here)

• Day 3: Bringing Problems to Your Boss the Right Way

• Day 4: Disagreeing Respectfully and Productively

• Day 5: Adding Real Value as an Effective Leader

Decode Your Boss’s Hidden Drivers: It’s Not Always About The Bottom Line

Think your boss is solely motivated by hitting numbers? Think again. Most leaders are also driven by deeper motivators – some thrive on innovation and creative problem-solving, others light up when mentoring their team, and yes, some are indeed motivated primarily by recognition and results. 

Your job? Figure out which combination drives your particular boss.