24. Managing Up – A Conversation With Jordan Cutler
Aug 14, 2024
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In this engaging conversation, Jordan Cutler, an expert in communication strategies for managerial relationships, shares insights on the importance of managing up. He discusses navigating early career challenges in software engineering and emphasizes proactive communication to build trust. Cutler highlights how championing accountability enhances productivity and fosters collaboration within teams. He also underscores the value of embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, promoting a culture of growth and improvement.
Proactively removing uncertainty through structured communication builds trust and accountability between employees and managers for effective teamwork.
Aligning personal objectives with management's priorities fosters collaboration and positions employees as valuable contributors to team success.
Deep dives
Removing Uncertainty in Leadership
Proactively removing uncertainty is crucial for effective management. When employees clearly communicate their plans and progress, it alleviates managers' concerns about task completion, deadlines, and quality expectations. For instance, regularly updating a manager at the beginning and end of the week builds trust and reinforces accountability, making it easier for managers to focus on other responsibilities. This structured communication helps create a consistent working environment where managers feel confident in their team's capabilities.
Aligning Personal and Managerial Priorities
Understanding and aligning personal objectives with management's priorities is essential for success in any role. Employees should actively engage with their managers to clarify goals, which can include reflecting on company objectives and the manager's immediate concerns. By aligning tasks with what is most important to their managers, employees position themselves as valuable contributors to the team’s success. This approach fosters collaboration and ensures that employees are seen as proactive partners rather than just task executors.
Embracing a Growth Mindset
Cultivating a growth mindset in the workplace encourages continuous improvement and resilience in the face of challenges. Responding positively to feedback, even when it involves criticism, can strengthen the relationship between employees and managers. By demonstrating a willingness to learn from mistakes and adapt, employees not only show their commitment to personal growth but also encourage managers to provide ongoing feedback. This culture of open communication and adaptability ultimately leads to better team dynamics and increased opportunities for career advancement.
The relationship with your manager is the most important ones to get right. But you’re rarely ever taught how the tools for managing up. You're going to learn them now.
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