In our prior posts we talked about 3 things any organization can do today to increase resiliency in their work space through better communication, starting with the power of 1-on-1’s.
We posted a video on the next step from 1-on-1’s – it’s managing upwards. It’s rarely done because it can be incredibly uncomfortable for both leaders and contributors! Done correctly, it’s incredibly liberating for both parties and further enables psychologically safe workspaces that you can have those brutally candid conversations in.
Let’s start with focusing on the importance of knowing yourself & your leader.
Leverage those 1-on-1’s to understand your leader’s work styles, habits and values, while they’re understanding yours. Understand which communication style works for them, and be clear on what works for you as well. Communication is tough in the best of circumstances. When you speak the same language, you’ll both be find a new concise clarity with each other. By communicating in a style and at a level that is mutually amenable, you reduce the natural friction that arises when any two parties are having a conversation. As an added bonus, you’ll continue to add to the trust bank of your professional relationship.
It’s also important for each of you to understand your goals for yourselves and at the organization. Understand how you can help each other achieve those goals. Working towards them together creates a strong, supportive rapport. This is one way you can create strong bonds through better communications from a place of authenticity & vulnerability. It’s wonderful to see goals align and leaders, contributors and teams work together to everyone’s mutual benefit.
Few things enhance happiness (and productivity!) and job satisfaction than when organizations shift from toxic competitiveness to cooperative effort, replacing fears of recrimination (oh shit!) with a culture that encourages and propels (you got this!)
Done consistently, managing upwards is part of the effort in building those critical connections of trust. That trust leads to clearer communication, which reinforces those relationships. When the next crisis hits, the focus will be on coming together and persevering in a way that is mutually beneficial and accountable. This is when, we say, fires end up putting themselves out because they don’t get a chance to consume the tinder and oxygen and grow.
Take a look at our new video and start managing up if you’re doing 1-on-1’s, and if you’re not doing 1-on-1’s, start already! Chime in below or drop us a note and let us know about your experiences managing up!
