Last updated on Jul 19, 2024

Here's how you can effectively manage up and influence your boss in the technology sector.

In the fast-paced world of technology, effectively managing your relationship with your boss is crucial for career advancement and project success. Whether you're a seasoned IT professional or a newcomer to the sector, understanding how to manage up—the art of managing your manager—can significantly influence your work environment and the trajectory of your career. It's not just about staying on good terms; it's about actively shaping how you're perceived and the opportunities you're given. With the right approach, you can become a key player in your IT team, steering projects in the right direction and ensuring your voice is heard at the top.

1 Understand Them

To manage up effectively in IT services, it's essential to understand your boss's goals, pressures, and working style. This insight allows you to align your work and communication in a way that directly supports their objectives, making you an indispensable part of their strategy. By anticipating their needs and offering solutions proactively, you demonstrate initiative and strategic thinking—qualities that are highly valued in the tech sector. Remember, the more you make your boss's job easier, the more they'll rely on you, giving you greater influence and opportunities to lead.

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Mike Sweeney

Director of IT at Executive Personal Computers
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I find that actually cross training with other departments and having them show my team and I how they do their tasks allows us to innovate and pitch better ideas to the C suite. Technology for technology sake can be a money sink where the business does not see any positive results. If you find some new tech that will drive IT costs down or at least keep them flat that is a good start. If you look to the largest population of users and get them tech to fill their needs and sell them on it first it becomes much easier to get C suite buy in.

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Alec Asgari

CTO | ICT Manager | Head of Marketing | AI Researcher and Consultant | Personal Growth | UAE, Dubai | London GB
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Managing up is about being a strategic partner, not just a doer. Align your efforts with your boss's priorities, anticipate their needs, and proactively offer solutions. This demonstrates your value and strengthens your position as a key contributor.

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2 Communicate Well

Communication is the bedrock of any successful relationship, including the one with your boss in the technology sector. Make sure your updates are concise, relevant, and timely. When presenting problems, always bring potential solutions to showcase your problem-solving skills. Be open to feedback and show that you can act on it constructively. By establishing a two-way dialogue, you create a foundation of trust and respect, allowing you to influence decisions and receive more significant responsibilities.

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Alec Asgari

CTO | ICT Manager | Head of Marketing | AI Researcher and Consultant | Personal Growth | UAE, Dubai | London GB
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In IT, effective communication with your boss isn't just about updates; it's about demonstrating your value through proactivity, problem-solving, and receptiveness to feedback.

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3 Show Initiative

In the tech industry, showing initiative can set you apart. Proactively seek out new technologies or processes that can benefit your team and present these ideas with clear implementation plans. Don't wait for instructions; if you see an opportunity for improvement or innovation, seize it. By taking charge in this way, you signal to your boss that you're a forward-thinker and a driving force for progress within the company.

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Alec Asgari

CTO | ICT Manager | Head of Marketing | AI Researcher and Consultant | Personal Growth | UAE, Dubai | London GB
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In IT, initiative isn't just about doing your job well; it's about identifying what needs to be done and championing solutions, proving your value as a proactive problem solver.

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4 Build Trust

Trust is a critical component of managing up in IT services. Consistently deliver on your promises and maintain a high standard of work. When your boss knows they can rely on you, it opens the door for more complex projects and increased autonomy. Be discreet with sensitive information to show that you're a professional who understands the importance of confidentiality in the tech sector. This trust will be essential as you seek to influence your boss and shape the direction of your team.

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5 Leverage Strengths

Recognize and leverage your unique strengths within the IT services realm. If you're exceptional at coding, offer to lead a challenging development project. Should your forte be systems analysis, volunteer to streamline processes. By playing to your strengths, you not only excel in your role but also make yourself an invaluable asset to your boss. This approach not only bolsters your reputation but also gives you more leverage when proposing new ideas or seeking support for initiatives.

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6 Navigate Politics

Navigating office politics is an inevitable part of managing up in any sector, including IT services. Be aware of the dynamics at play within your organization and use this knowledge to inform your interactions with your boss and colleagues. Avoid getting entangled in conflicts and focus on building broad support for your ideas. By staying politically astute, you can better position yourself as a leader and influencer, making it easier to steer projects and gain your boss's endorsement.

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