Common Misconceptions (and the Truth) About Managing Up in Pro Sports and in Business

Managing up may be the best thing you’re not doing.

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to this idea. So let’s clear up the concept of managing up, and learn how it can transform your team or your career. 

Misconception: Managing up means I get to control my leader

Truth: Managing up means putting your boss first so you can both win

Contrary to popular belief, managing up isn’t controlling your boss or coach to do what you want them to do. Managing up is simply serving your leader the best way you know how - both for their benefit and for yours. Start by verifying how your boss wants to communicate: verbal, written (text or email), how often, and at what times of day; do they want to know everything or a few things. Knowing what matters most to your boss about your performance (i.e. communication, honesty, feedback, loyalty) is another way to put your boss first and serve him or her well.

Most leaders dislike the feeling of avoidance and dislike surprises…a lot.  Work together to learn your boss’ values. This will, in turn, help you both to have greater productivity and effectiveness.

Misconception: Only leaders can manage

Truth: Managing up is for everyone

So how does everyone manage up? Normally we think of leadership as something that happens from the top down. However, when we choose to manage up, we find that leadership can happen in the opposite direction as well. When we filter through the facts to keep our boss’ mind from getting too cluttered, we’re managing up. When we come to a brainstorm meeting prepared with ideas and solutions, we’re managing up. When we show up with an issue and a possible answer or two, we build trust and manage up at the same time.

When we add value to our role and empower our leader to be more effective, we all win.       

Misconception: Managing up means you’ll never move up

Truth: Managing up increases your likelihood to succeed and be promoted

La’Roi Glover, an All-Pro Defensive Tackle, taught me about managing up in the NFL. Throughout his NFL career, one of his top priorities was making sure his coach looked like the best coach on the planet. This wasn’t always easy: it meant being coachable, staying humble, and having an incredibly strong work ethic. Today, La’Roi’s hard work has paid off throughout his long-playing career and he’s become an Assistant Defensive Line Coach for the LA Chargers. His habit of managing up during his years as a player has turned him into an incredible coach with unique insight for both sides of the game.

Send a note if you have a question or comment regarding this successful concept.