We talk a lot about supervising people and running projects. One of the distinguishing traits of leaders who make a bigger impact in organizations is their ability to influence their boss(es), and by extension their boss(es).
I’m not talking about manipulation or sucking up or currying favor. Those tactics cease to work after a time. Be aware that others will use manipulative tactics (including on you) but don’t do them yourself. Henry Mintzberg was right when he said we all hate the people who “kiss upward and kick downward.”
Instead, develop the mindset of pursuing effectiveness. You’re much more effective for your organization, yourself, and especially your team when you effectively influence up.
[Note: You’ll hear the term “Managing up” but you don’t manage your boss(es). You can influence them but don’t mistakenly think you manage them.]
Here are ten things I’ve learned:
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